Five years. Half a decade.
A whole lot of LIFT.
In 2020, in one of the most unusual moments for global travel, LIFT took to the skies for the first time. What began as a hopeful idea — to make flying friendlier, warmer and more flexible — grew into a shared journey with travellers across the country. As we celebrate our fifth birthday, here’s a look at what the past five years have meant to us.
Taking Off in 2020
Launching in the middle of a pandemic wasn’t conventional, but then again, nothing about LIFT was. Our goal was simple: Make flying feel better. Make the experience feel human.
We did this by giving our crew fresh, comfy uniforms. Sneakers? You bet. We brought real coffee onboard with our friends at vida e caffè. And when it came to flexibility, we soon made it a buzzword with penalty-free changes and cancellations up to 24 hours before your flight.
Five years later, this customer obsession still guides every single decision we make.
Five Years of Moments That Mattered
From massive giveaways to onboard fashion runways, here are just some of the moments that have shaped who we are. Moments created with and for our travellers.
1. New Routes & an Elevated Flying Experience
We expanded our network to make travel between South Africa’s favourite cities easier and more flexible. Along the way, we introduced LIFT Premium, designed for travellers who want even more extra space, comfort and convenience.
2. Opening the Cabin to Small Dogs
One of the moments we’re proudest of is welcoming small dogs onboard. It changed the travel experience for so many families, because we know it’s just not the same without your furbabies snoozing safely under the seat in front of you.
3. Collaborations That Started Conversations
From Disney magic to bold Checkers colours, our partners helped us bring unexpected joy to the runway. Seeing travellers stop for photos in front of our aircraft has been one of the most rewarding parts of growing LIFT!
4. Surprises at 36,000 Feet
Over the years, we’ve hosted everything from silent discos and comedy sketches to mid-flight bingo and festive giveaways onboard. Our goal is always to surprise our travellers, and make flying feel fun again.
Stay in the LIFT Loop in 2026!
5. The Annual Golden Ticket Hunt
Every year, we take the fun beyond the cabin with our LIFT Golden Ticket Hunt: a countrywide search that turns beaches, parks, airports and city hotspots into live treasure maps. Thousands participate, a handful find the prizes, and it’s become one of our most-loved traditions.
It’s unexpected, a little crazy, and very LIFT.
6. A December Tradition
Our 12 Days of Christmas giveaways have become a highlight each year, with over R26 million in prizes shared in total. It’s one of our favourite ways to give back to our travellers over the festive season! This year, we focused on our special edition livery competition, but we’ll be back with a bang in 2026!
7. Travelling With Littles
Our LIFT Littles have met Peppa Pig, and spotted Stitch along the way. Plus, snacks, drinks and free activity packs? Always on the house.
8. Flexibility That Works for Real Life
We’ve helped thousands change their plans with ease through penalty-free flexibility and our LIFT Wallet. Because life doesn’t always run on schedule, and we’ve seen just how much of an impact we’re able to make by helping travellers when they need it most.
9. A Crew That Makes the Difference
The heart of LIFT has always been our crew. The people who welcome you on board, offer a warm smile, and turn everyday flights into easy ones. Their care is what travellers remember most.
A Few Milestones Along the Way
In just half a decade, we’ve:
4 million+
Passengers flown
More than four million travellers have taken to the skies with LIFT.
30 000+
Flights completed
Tens of thousands of flights connecting people across South Africa.
32 450 000
Kilometres travelled
The same as circling the Earth about 810 times or flying to the Moon 84 times.
4 500+
Dogs welcomed
Which adds up to 18 000 paws in the air.
Built With You, Flown With You
Every decision, every route, and every moment of surprise-and-delight has been shaped by you, our travellers. Your feedback, your livery selfies, your stories, your support during crazy days and busy seasons is what’s made five years possible.
Here’s to What’s Next
We’re proud of these past five years, but more than anything, we’re grateful. Grateful to fly you, to meet you, to hear your stories, and to be a small part of so many journeys.
Thank you, South Africa, for five unforgettable years. The best part of our journey has always been you.
