LIFT Airlines Applies for Three Weekly Flights Between Durban and Mauritius, Marking Their First International Service to Meet the Travel Demand Growth

Published on December 11, 2025

LIFT Airlines, a domestic airline in South Africa, has also requested that the International Air Services Council in South Africa approves their flights from Durban to Mauritius, with frequencies of three flights per week. This will be LIFT Airlines’ first foray into overseas destinations. This follows a period where there has been increasing demand for travel between South Africa and Mauritius.

At present, LIFT Airlines operates flights on various domestic routes such as Johannesburg – Cape Town, Johannesburg – Durban, and Cape Town – Durban, but has not yet opted to engage in international flight operations. The planned air route between Durban and Mauritius would mark a milestone in the growth of LIFT Airlines, which has been growing steadily since it was established in 2020.

Filling a Gap in Long-Haul Connectivity from Durban

Durban, located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, is a major gateway for tourists and business travelers, but has been limited in terms of long-haul connectivity compared to Johannesburg and Cape Town. The new route would help strengthen Durban’s international travel offerings, particularly to Mauritius, a popular island destination for leisure travel, honeymooners, and business visitors.

Currently, Mauritius is served by a few airlines, including Air Mauritius, South African Airways, and seasonal flights from FlySafair. However, the growing demand for travel to Mauritius, particularly from travelers in KwaZulu-Natal, has led to the need for more options, making LIFT’s proposed route a timely addition to the regional air network.

Boosting Regional Tourism and Economic Growth

The introduction of a direct Durban-Mauritius flight could have a significant impact on regional tourism flows. Mauritius is a highly attractive destination for South African travelers, known for its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and cultural experiences. With the new route, more Durban residents and travelers from surrounding areas would have easier access to the island, potentially boosting tourism and creating new opportunities for businesses in the region.

LIFT Airlines’ entry into the Mauritius market could also support the growth of business tourism between the two destinations, enhancing the airline’s role in promoting economic development and tourism. In addition, this would offer a more affordable and convenient alternative for those seeking international travel from Durban.

Aligning with LIFT’s Strategic Expansion

The proposed international route is a natural next step for LIFT Airlines, which has adopted a measured expansion strategy since launching in 2020. The airline’s focus has been on building a solid domestic foundation before branching into international markets. This careful approach to growth reflects LIFT’s commitment to offering quality service while maintaining sustainability and profitability in the competitive air travel market.

If the application is approved, the Durban-Mauritius route will not only expand LIFT’s network but also offer increased competition to the existing carriers servicing the route. This could lead to better pricing and more frequent flights, benefiting travelers with more options and flexibility.

The Future of LIFT Airlines and Durban’s Air Travel Connectivity

LIFT Airlines’ expansion into international markets is expected to continue growing as the airline adapts to market demand. If approved, the Durban-Mauritius route will serve as a blueprint for further international expansion, particularly in regions where demand for leisure and business travel is on the rise. The introduction of this service is also expected to drive economic activity in both Durban and Mauritius, increasing the flow of both tourists and business travelers.

As LIFT Airlines looks ahead to future opportunities, the success of this new international route could pave the way for additional flights to other destinations in the Indian Ocean and beyond. With the airline’s reputation for affordable pricing and customer-centric service, LIFT is well-positioned to make a mark on international air travel in the years to come.

A Key Step in LIFT Airlines International Expansion

The planned flight between Durban and Mauritius represents a major milestone in the expansion of LIFT Airlines since it will be venturing into cross-border flights. This new flight will contribute to enhancing air connectivity between Kwa-Zulu, which is found in South Africa, and Mauritius. With this planned flight, it will benefit not only tourists but also enhance air connectivity between Durban International Airport and other airports around the world. The expansion of LIFT Airlines, in conjunction with other international flights offered by LIFT, will play a major role in determining the future of air travel and tourism in this particular region.

Image Source: LIFT Airlines