Travel across Africa recently received a boost with the South African roadshow launch of VistaJet, a global private aviation company. VistaJet offers an innovative business model, giving customers access to an entire fleet while paying only for the hours they fly.
The company’s solution provides African governments, corporates, and high-net-worth individuals the freedom to fly anywhere on the continent- or globally – without the risks or costs associated with traditional ownership. Pricing is standardized based on flight hours.
Within 24 to 48 hours, business executives or entrepreneurs can board any of the company’s mid- and long-range jets, such as the Bombardier Global 7500, which boasts a 17-hour non-stop flight range – making it the largest and longest-range business jet in the world. Other available options include the Embraer Legacy 650/650E and the Praetor 600.
The service enables direct flights, such as from Johannesburg to Casablanca or Addis Ababa, bypassing the common challenge in African air travel where multiple connecting flights via European or continental airports are often required.
This addresses a longstanding challenge for African aviation. Organizations and governments are making significant strides to reverse these inefficiencies through initiatives like the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), both spearheaded by the African Union. These initiatives aim to enhance trade, connectivity, and economic growth.
At the recent 56th Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) in Cairo, Willie Walsh, director-general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), highlighted the potential of Africa’s aviation industry. He noted that while Africa is home to 18% of the world’s population, it accounts for only 3% of global GDP and a mere 2% of air transport.
“There is great potential; Africa remains under-utilized in aviation,” Walsh told delegates.
Building on this, Philippe Scalabrini, president of VistaJet Europe and Africa, shared insights into the company’s commitment to the region: “We have seen a 103% growth in hours flown in Africa over the past year and a 30% increase in new customers joining our membership programs. This is why we are dedicating more resources to the region, including three aircraft, such as the Bombardier Global 7500 and Challenger 605, to cater to both inbound and intra-regional travel needs.”
Scalabrini emphasized the company’s investment in Africa, stating, “We see business aviation as a key driver of economic development – and we want to be part of it. Over the past 14 years, it has become clear that Africa needs reliable, flexible, and safe air transportation. Our fleet connects executives to key cities worldwide, offering the benefits of aircraft ownership at a fraction of the cost.”
He also highlighted the company’s collaboration with local partners for ground services while focusing on sustainability. VistaJet has targeted three key areas: Sustainable Aviation Fuel, mandatory carbon offset programs under European Union requirements, and transparent reporting, with all data available on its website.
