South Africa’s low-cost airline, LIFT, achieves various SDGs while benefiting the economy, the environment and society with its unique operating model.
LIFT Airline, which launched in December 2020, has made significant inroads in the South African aviation space by offering a not-so-low-cost product for low-cost fares.
It has emerged as a trusted provider of air services within South Africa, offering reliable and innovative air transport infrastructure. (SDG 9)
The airline operating flights within South Africa’s golden triangle (between Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town), demonstrates a sound understanding of sustainability.
LIFT AIRLINE FOCUSES ON ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY
The budget airline has supported the growth of small to medium-sized businesses in the country.
This is evident in how LIFT impacts South Africa’s economy through support for local businesses and the creation of economic opportunities for employees, local artists, and beyond.
“We’re great supporters of local businesses and talent,” says Haydn Henning, LIFT Brand Manager.
Since its launch, LIFT has supported local businesses in its day-to-day operations. (SDG 8)
“We believe in supporting fellow South Africans whenever possible, which can be seen through partnerships with our caterers, as well as our support of Mzansi’s talent,” he says.
INFLIGHT CATERING OPTIONS
LIFT provides complimentary snacks and beverages to passengers on its flights.
The airline has enlisted the services of several local businesses to provide these products.
“Anyone who’s flown with us knows we offer complimentary drinks and snacks, provided by South African businesses,” Henning says.
The airline partners with local producers for its inflight snacks, including Khayelitsha Cookies, Thistle Bakery, Grumpy Snacks, and KD Foods.
For its beverages, LIFT obtains refreshments from various local suppliers, including Vida e Caffè, Pura Soda, DGB, Kingship Distilleries, and Signal Hill.
“We love to shine a light on the fantastic service providers we use. Of course, all Local is Lekker, but these small South African businesses have gone above and beyond, and truly make an impact on passengers daily. We’re proud to enlist their services,” Henning says.
The airline also pays attention to the product packaging by serving items packaged with recyclable materials and minimizing the use of single-use plastics. (SDG 12)
SHOWCASING LOCAL TALENT
Aside from helping local businesses grow, LIFT often enlists South African artistic talent to perform on its flights.
The carrier surprises passengers with pop-up events, including silent discos, live musical performances, and fashion shows during flights.
The airline’s marketing, branding, and creative campaigns highlight South African photographers, designers, content creators, and artists.
These special surprises leave passengers with something to talk about and certainly help to set the brand apart from other airlines.
“Supporting local businesses and artists creates a knock-on effect in the economy. When local businesses are supported, jobs are created, communities are impacted, and opportunities are generated. The impact is seen through spending at other businesses in the South African economy, which helps stimulate a robust local economy,” he adds.
LIFT AIRLINE WORKS ON SDGs
Aside from supporting South African businesses and artists, LIFT also creates employment opportunities for local pilots, cabin crew, and airport staff, amongst others. (SDG 8)
Though it may not operate its flights with the newest aircraft, LIFT helps reduce the environmental impact of flying. This is achieved by operating lighter aircraft.
Since passengers pay for checked baggage, many of them only carry cabin baggage on LIFT’s flights. This results in lighter aircraft, which helps reduce climate change through lower carbon emissions. (SDG 13)
The airline is thus making headways in its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, while making flying with LIFT a unique yet rewarding experience.
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