Lift CEO details Africa expansion plans

The aviation sector has been one of the hardest hit industries globally by the COVID-19 pandemic. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Lift CEO Jonathan Ayachi shed light on the current state of the aviation industry in South Africa and the company's expansion plans. Ayachi highlighted that while the aviation market in South Africa has shown signs of recovery, it is still a long way off from pre-pandemic levels. Comparing passenger volumes to 2019, South Africa is at about 75% of pre-COVID levels, whereas some European markets are forecasted to surpass pre-COVID levels. This slower recovery in South Africa can be attributed to various macroeconomic challenges facing the country. Despite the challenges, Ayachi emphasized the importance of a gradual and sustainable recovery to prevent another market collapse. Regarding the supply side of the industry, Ayachi mentioned that the number of flights is at around 80-85% of pre-COVID levels, aligning with current demand. However, the industry has seen significant changes with the restructuring of South African Airways (SAA), impacting regional access and travel efficiency. While navigating these challenges, Lift has focused on its demand-driven operating model, expanding its route network and fleet to adapt to market conditions. The company plans to continue growing in line with demand, ensuring sustainability and market stability. Ayachi stressed the need for prudence in the aviation industry, citing past failures of airlines that grew too quickly and became overleveraged. Lift's approach prioritizes stability and cautious growth to avoid financial risks and ensure long-term success. The company remains flexible and ready to expand rapidly if market conditions warrant, demonstrating a balance of optimism and caution in their expansion strategy. As the industry continues to recover, Lift remains committed to providing efficient and accessible travel options while navigating the complexities of the post-pandemic aviation landscape.