Johannesburg-based low-cost carrier FlySafair is now the official domestic carrier for the Proteas, South Africa’s national cricket team. The airline is also hosting a livery design competition to make one of its Boeing 737s a Proteas aircraft.

Supporting the Proteas domestically

On November 5, 2024, FlySafair announced a new three-year sponsorship deal with the national cricket team as part of its commitment to supporting South African sports. The airline has been known locally for its strong support for Springboks Rugby and now sponsors two of the country’s most-loved sports teams.

South Africa’s Proteas are well-established in international cricket history. The women’s team was runners-up at the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. FlySafair is extending its endorsement to both the men’s and women’s teams as they strive to return to the pinnacle of world cricket. Speaking about the sponsorship, FlySafair Chief Marketing Officer Kirby Gordon said,

“As a proudly South African airline, we have always believed in backing initiatives that reflect the spirit and resilience of our nation. Our partnership with the Proteas is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a testament to our belief in the future of Cricket South Africa and our commitment to uplifting South African sport.”

Cricket South Africa (CSA) recently appointed a new leadership team, moving forward with its commitment to supporting the Proteas as they represent the country on the global stage. FlySafair is pleased to be associated with CAS’s efforts and believes its support will be instrumental in ensuring a brighter future for the sport.

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A Proteas livery on the way

Cricket South Africa views FlySafair as an ideal partner because of its reputation and dedication to local sports. The partnership brings a shared vision of unity between the association and the airline. CSA Chief Commercial Officer Mtunzi Jonas said,

“We are delighted to welcome FlySafair as a sponsor of our national cricket teams. Their reputation for excellence and their dedication to South African sport make them an ideal partner. This sponsorship comes at a crucial time as we embark on a journey of rebuilding and renewing our teams. With FlySafair’s support, we are confident that we can achieve great things and bring pride to all South Africans.”

Photo: Nicolas JvRensburg | Shutterstock

As part of the sponsorship deal, FlySafair wants to create a unique Proteas plane with a special livery. The airline has launched a creative competition inviting South Africans to submit their design ideas. The winning design will earn match tickets and $577 (ZAR10,000) in FlySafair flight vouchers.

The airline aims to continue supporting local sports while making air travel more accessible to South Africans. FlySafair has been in operation for ten years. It is one of Southern Africa’s largest airlines, with a fleet of about 35 Boeing 737s. Over the last decade, it has played a pivotal role in connecting South Africans, capturing about 60% of the domestic market.

Supporting the world champions

FlySafair has been sponsoring the Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby team, since 2017. During the partnership, the Springboks have excelled on the international stage, winning two consecutive Rugby World Cup titles – in 2019 and 2023. The partnership has included several exciting campaigns and initiatives.

Photo: Thiago B Trevisan | Shutterstock

Last year, after the Springboks landed in Johannesburg from France, FlySafair was responsible for the domestic trophy tour. The airline took the champions and the Webb Ellis Cup from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban, and East London. Over the years, FlySafair has also had several Springboks planes, with a special green and gold livery unveiled in September 2023.

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One of the most exciting FlySafair-Springboks initiatives to date was the double flypast over Loftus Stadium ahead of a Springboks game in July 2023. The airline flew two Boeing 737s over the stadium, capturing the attention of all spectators.

Photo: FlySafair

It returned this year with a flyover in Cape Town (shown above) before the Springboks went and claimed a victory against New Zealand’s All Blacks. There have been several other fun campaigns with the national rugby team. FlySafair hopes its new partnership with the Proteas will bring similar success and take South African cricket to greater heights.