FlySafair launches new route to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport

Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba recently spoke at the launch of a new FlySafair flight route from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport to Cape Town, marking a significant step for Limpopo Province on 02 October 2025. This initiative aims to boost connectivity, grow the economy, particularly in tourism, mining, and agriculture, and make travel more accessible and convenient for both residents and visitors, further unlocking the province’s rich potential and strengthening local communities.

Key details from the launch

• Event: Launch of the FlySafair route from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport to Cape Town.
• Date: 02 October 2025.
• Location: Hoedspruit, Maruleng Municipality, Mopani District, Limpopo Province.
• Key Speaker: Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba.
• Prominent Attendees:
  • MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Ms Violet Mathye.
  • Maruleng Municipality Mayor, Cllr Tsheko Musolwa.
  • Department of Defence Representative, Major General L Matnebula.
  • Chairman of SAFAIR Operations, Mr Blackie Komani.
  • Traditional Leadership.
  • Faith-Based Organisations.
  • Distinguished guests.
  • Members of the Media.
• Company Involved: FlySafair, recognised as a leading on-time low-cost airline.
• Route Information: Direct flights between Hoedspruit and Cape Town, operating three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Fares start from R1570 one way.
• Broader Context: The route aligns with Limpopo Province’s plans for a logistics hub and airport in Polokwane, supporting agricultural and mining sectors alongside tourism.

Full details of the premier’s speech

Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba expressed great excitement for Limpopo Province as she celebrated the launch of the new FlySafair flight route from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport to Cape Town on 02 October 2025. She emphasised that this new flight path is much more than just a travel option; it’s a vital step towards better connections, stronger economic growth, and truly unlocking the rich potential of Limpopo.

The Premier highlighted how the stunning Kruger to Canyon Biosphere, with its diverse natural beauty, perfectly sets the scene for this new route. She explained that connecting Hoedspruit to Cape Town shows the province’s dedication to growing its key economic sectors: mining, tourism, and agriculture. By making travel easier, Limpopo is nurturing its economy, helping it to flourish and thrive.

Dr. Ramathuba pointed out that this decision by FlySafair is part of their bigger plan to improve access to the famous Kruger National Park, drawing on the huge tourism potential of both Limpopo and Mpumalanga. This isn’t just about making travel more convenient for our residents and visitors; it’s about igniting significant economic growth through tourism. The route does more than offer convenience; it makes local communities stronger, boosts conservation tourism, and gives travellers excellent access to all the exciting experiences South Africa has to offer.

She praised FlySafair, noting that since they started in 2014, they’ve become a leader in the airline industry, known globally for being the top on-time low-cost airline. Their commitment to reliable service fits perfectly with Limpopo’s goal of offering competitive fares and a fantastic travel experience. The new route will fly three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and one-way tickets will start from an affordable R1570. This also works well with FlySafair’s existing daily flights from Cape Town to Mbombela, making travel even more accessible.

The Premier also linked this development to the provincial government’s wider plans, including setting up a logistics hub and airport in Polokwane. While Hoedspruit will focus on attracting tourists, these combined efforts will create a strong foundation for growth in the agricultural and mining industries too.

Benefits for the community and how to participate

This new flight route brings a lot of good things for the community. For starters, it will significantly boost local businesses, especially those in tourism like guesthouses, restaurants, tour operators, and craft markets, by bringing more visitors to the area. It also makes it easier for residents to travel to Cape Town for business or leisure. The focus on conservation tourism means more support for protecting our natural environment, which benefits everyone.

The Premier encouraged everyone to embrace this new opportunity. Community members can participate by supporting local tourism initiatives, spreading the word about the new flight, and engaging with the new economic activities it will create. Businesses can look into partnerships with tourism stakeholders to make the most of the increased visitor numbers. By working together, we can ensure Limpopo truly thrives and reaches new heights. You can find more information about provincial initiatives and news from the Premier’s office at the official website of the Limpopo government and more Premier’s Office News.

Questions and answers

1. What is the new flight route announced by Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba?

   The new flight route is with FlySafair, connecting Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport to Cape Town.

2. When did this new flight route start operating?

   The new route was launched on 02 October 2025.

3. How often will the Hoedspruit to Cape Town flights operate?

   The flights will run three times a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

4. What is the starting price for a one-way ticket on this new route?

   Fares for a one-way ticket start from R1570.

5. What are the main benefits this new route brings to Limpopo Province?

   It enhances connectivity, promotes economic growth in tourism, mining, and agriculture, makes travel more convenient, boosts access to the Kruger National Park, and strengthens local communities.

6. How does this new route specifically help the tourism sector?

   It improves access to popular destinations like the Kruger National Park for travellers from Limpopo and Mpumalanga, igniting tourism-driven economic growth and supporting conservation tourism.

7. Is FlySafair a reliable airline?

   Yes, since its start in 2014, FlySafair has been recognised as a leader in the aviation industry and the top on-time low-cost airline in the world.

8. Are there any other related provincial plans for travel and logistics?

   Yes, this development aligns with the provincial government’s plans to establish a logistics hub and airport in Polokwane, which will support agricultural and mining sectors.

9. How can the local community get involved or benefit from this new initiative?

   The community can benefit through increased tourism, supporting local businesses, and engaging with new economic opportunities. Participation can involve backing local tourism efforts and spreading awareness about the new route.

10. Where can I find more information about Limpopo government activities and news?

    You can find more information on the official website of the Limpopo government and more Premier’s Office News.