Questions about this guide? Guide help on WhatsAppJump to flight search ↓

LIFT Airline fares, compared in one search.

The flexible challenger on the Golden Triangle. Compare live LIFT fares against FlySafair, Airlink and SAA before you book Johannesburg–Cape Town.

Content updated 24 September 2026

Written and reviewed by , founder and editor · Johannesburg

Dec 2020first flight
Airbus A320wider-cabin fleet
JNB–CPTcore high-frequency route
Flexibilitychange-friendly fares

About the airline

Built for travellers whose plans change.

LIFT took off in December 2020, founded by Gidon Novick (co-founder of kulula.com), Jonathan Ayache and Global Aviation. Rather than chasing the lowest possible base fare, LIFT positioned itself around flexibility and experience: change-friendly tickets, a wider Airbus A320 cabin, and small touches like free Vida e Caffè coffee before boarding.

Its network is deliberately focused. The Johannesburg–Cape Town corridor is LIFT's home turf, flown at high frequency, with selected leisure routes added seasonally. That focus means LIFT lives or dies on SA's single busiest route — which keeps its pricing sharp and its schedule dense exactly where most travellers need it.

LIFT offers different fare types, including a carry-on-only option and an Economy Bag option with checked baggage. Flexibility and inclusions vary by fare, so compare the exact rules and total price against other airlines.

Compare LIFT fares

Routes & typical fares

Where LIFT flies.

RouteLive fare checkNotes
Johannesburg (JNB) → Cape TownCompare liveCore route, multiple daily frequencies
Cape Town → Johannesburg (JNB)Compare liveBusiness-heavy mornings price highest
Seasonal leisure routesCompare liveRun a live search — LIFT adds routes seasonally

Airline prices and schedules change continuously. Use the live search above to compare available routes, baggage and the final fare for your dates.

Check what the LIFT fare actually includes

Check the exact LIFT fare option: a no-bag fare and a fare including a checked bag can produce different totals. The conditions specify bag-size and weight limits; verify the current price of any missing bag separately.

LIFT primary information · Compare baggage rules and source dates

A useful comparison uses the same dates, passengers, itinerary and bags. Include only costs missing from the quoted fare, and confirm the operating carrier rather than relying only on the marketing name.

Compare two complete journey totals · Compare airline guides

LIFT FAQs

Questions travellers ask.

Which routes does LIFT fly?

LIFT's core route is Johannesburg (OR Tambo) to Cape Town at high daily frequency, with selected leisure routes operated seasonally. Run a live search above to see LIFT's current schedule on your dates.

Can I change my LIFT flight for free?

Flexibility is LIFT's signature — the airline is known for change-friendly tickets without the punitive fees typical of low-cost carriers, and premium fares carry the most generous change and cancellation terms. Confirm the exact policy for your fare type when booking.

Is LIFT cheaper than FlySafair?

Not always. Compare the exact fare bundle, baggage allowance and change rules for your dates. A lower headline fare can cost more once required extras are added.

What aircraft does LIFT fly?

LIFT operates Airbus A320s in partnership with Global Aviation. The A320 cabin is slightly wider than the Boeing 737, which many passengers notice in seat comfort.

Compare before choosing

Flexibility is valuable only on a route that fits.

Compare LIFT against carriers with broader or different network and baggage models.

Ready when you are

Compare today's LIFT fares.

One search shows LIFT priced against FlySafair, Airlink, CemAir and SAA on your route.

Search flights

Know who you book with

Your search starts here. Your booking is with Travelstart.

How we work →
01   Compare your options

Search available flights for your dates, then compare the baggage, times and total price.

02   Book with Travelstart

Travelstart handles checkout, payment and ticketing. SAflightdeals is an independent affiliate.

03   Keep your confirmation

For an existing booking, use the support details in your Travelstart confirmation. We cannot change or refund tickets.

We may earn a commission when you book through our links. SAflightdeals does not add its own booking fee. Our comparison approach.