LIFT is Global Airways’ award-winning passenger airline, launched in 2020 to bring a fresher, more flexible way of flying to South Africa. Powered by Global Airways’ aircraft, crew, and operational expertise, LIFT was built around one simple idea: make flying easier, friendlier, and more adaptable for today’s traveller.
With features like flexible bookings and a genuinely pet-friendly policy, LIFT has quickly earned a reputation as South Africa’s most flexible airline.
Global Airways is best known as a leading ACMI and charter operator, flying for airlines around the world. LIFT is our way of bringing that same operational strength directly to passengers.
By operating our Airbus A320 aircraft on high-demand domestic routes such as Johannesburg–Cape Town, LIFT keeps aircraft productive year-round while delivering a reliable, high-quality scheduled service to the local market. It’s a smart model that benefits both our business and our customers.
LIFT has its own personality, look, and voice – but it’s built on Global Airways’ operational backbone. Operating under the Global Airways AOC and supported by established safety systems and IOSA registration, LIFT was able to enter the market quickly and with confidence.
The result is a unique combination: a modern, customer-focused airline for South African travellers, backed by the experience of a global aviation partner.
Over the past five years, LIFT Airline has consistently been recognised with leading industry accolades, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most innovative and customer-focused airlines. Highlights include being named Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, alongside multiple honours at the World Luxury Travel Awards – including Best Domestic Airline Africa, Cabin Crew Southern Africa, and Domestic Airline – Continent Winner.
These achievements reflect LIFT’s continued commitment to delivering a differentiated, high-quality travel experience -underpinned by flexibility, thoughtful onboard product, and service excellence that resonates with today’s modern traveller.
LIFT is more than just a domestic airline. It’s a platform for future growth — opening the door to regional African routes and carefully selected scheduled opportunities, supported by Global Airways’ fleet, infrastructure, and operational know-how.
The close relationship between LIFT and Global Airways creates real advantages. Pilots and cabin crew gain broader experience across different operations, while shared training, maintenance, and operational oversight allow us to operate efficiently and consistently at scale.
