Harith General Partners, a leading Pan-African infrastructure fund manager, founded by South African billionaire Tshepo Mahloele, has secured regulatory approval to acquire FlySafair, moving the investment firm closer to taking control of one of Africa’s fastest-growing low-cost airlines.

The approval from South Africa’s Competition Commission marks a significant milestone in one of the country’s most closely watched aviation transactions. The deal, which still requires clearance from the Competition Tribunal, will see Harith acquire Safair Holdings from Ireland-based ASL Aviation Holdings, the parent company of FlySafair.

FlySafair ownership rules drive deal

The acquisition comes as FlySafair faces pressure to comply with South Africa’s domestic airline ownership regulations.

The airline, which controls more than 60% of South Africa’s domestic seat capacity, was previously flagged by the Domestic Air Services Council over concerns that its voting ownership structure did not meet local ownership requirements.

Under the proposed deal, Harith’s investment is expected to strengthen FlySafair’s compliance position while supporting the airline’s long-term expansion strategy in Southern Africa.

As part of the approval conditions, Harith must ensure that airlines operating from Lanseria Airport are treated fairly and that airport-related services are not offered on discriminatory terms.

Harith expands African transport investment portfolio

Founded in 2006 and chaired by Tshepo Mahloele, Harith General Partners has grown into a leading Pan-African infrastructure fund manager with more than $1.2 billion in assets under management.

Based in Sandton, the firm focuses on strategic sectors including energy, transportation, digital infrastructure, healthcare and water. The firm has invested in major African infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic growth across the continent.

The FlySafair deal expands Harith’s footprint in aviation and logistics, adding one of Africa’s fastest-growing airlines to its infrastructure portfolio.

FlySafair’s low-cost model attracts investors

Established in 2014, FlySafair has become South Africa’s dominant domestic budget airline, operating a fleet of 36 Boeing aircraft and serving 15 destinations, including regional routes to Mauritius and Zanzibar.

The airline has built a reputation for affordable fares and strong operational performance, consistently ranking among the world’s most punctual carriers. With more than five decades of aviation experience behind Safair Operations, FlySafair has positioned itself as a key player in expanding affordable air travel across Southern Africa.

The completion of Harith’s acquisition could reshape the ownership landscape of South Africa’s aviation industry while highlighting growing investor interest in African transport infrastructure.