By:Lonwabo Mtyeku l Photo Credit: Supplied.
FlySafair enhances digital convenience with the launch of Apple Pay and Google Pay in its mobile app, enabling passengers to book flights instantly with secure, one-tap checkout.
Johannesburg – 17 March 2026 — FlySafair has introduced Apple Pay and Google Pay as new one-tap payment options within its mobile app, marking a significant step in the airline’s push to modernise and simplify the customer booking experience.
Powered by South African fintech company Stitch, the new feature enables travellers to complete flight purchases instantly using payment credentials already stored on their smartphones—eliminating the need for manual card entry and reducing checkout friction.
Faster, Seamless Booking Experience
The integration reflects a broader industry shift towards frictionless digital transactions, as airlines compete to meet rising consumer expectations for speed and convenience.
“Travellers increasingly expect booking to be as quick and seamless as possible,” said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair.
“Adding Apple Pay and Google Pay allows customers to complete their purchase in seconds, using secure payment methods they already know and trust.”
Currently available on the FlySafair mobile app, the one-tap payment functionality is expected to expand to the airline’s website in a future rollout.
Strategic Fintech Partnership
The collaboration with Stitch underscores the growing role of fintech infrastructure in enhancing travel experiences. Stitch specialises in enabling secure, seamless digital payments across online and in-person environments.
“We’re super excited to partner with FlySafair to make flight booking even easier,” said Kiaan Pillay, CEO and Co-founder of Stitch.
“The FlySafair team continues to deliver more innovative and enjoyable travel experiences for South Africans, with customer demands top of mind.”
Expanding a Digital-First Travel Ecosystem
The addition of Apple Pay and Google Pay forms part of FlySafair’s expanding suite of digital self-service tools, designed to give passengers greater control and flexibility throughout their journey.
Key features available through the app and digital platforms include:
- WhatsApp Pay: Enables quick payment for extras like baggage, reducing airport queues
- Track My Plane: Provides near real-time tracking of assigned aircraft before departure
- AI Lindi: A 24/7 AI-powered assistant handling bookings, changes and customer queries via WhatsApp
- Online Check-In: Allows passengers to check in up to 24 hours before departure
- Manage My Booking: Facilitates easy updates to flights and passenger details
- Real-Time Flight Updates: Instant notifications for delays or schedule changes
- Self-Service Add-Ons: Seamless purchase of seats, luggage and special items
“Travel should feel straightforward from the moment you book,” Gordon added.
“Our digital tools are designed to remove unnecessary steps and give passengers greater flexibility and control over their trip.”
Strengthening Market Position
Since launching operations in 2014, FlySafair has established itself as Southern Africa’s leading low-cost carrier, consistently recognised for operational efficiency and punctuality. The airline has been ranked the world’s most on-time low-cost airline by Cirium and continues to expand both its domestic and regional footprint.
Industry recognition has followed, including multiple honours at the South African Civil Aviation Authority awards and repeated wins as Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa at the Skytrax awards.
Driving the Future of Travel
The introduction of one-tap payments highlights a broader transformation within aviation, where digital innovation is increasingly central to customer experience strategy.
As travellers demand faster, safer and more intuitive booking processes, airlines like FlySafair are leveraging partnerships with fintech firms to remain competitive—while redefining how passengers interact with travel services.
With further digital enhancements expected, the airline’s latest move signals a clear intent: to make air travel not only more affordable, but effortlessly accessible from the very first tap.
