Why your domestic flight keeps costing more, and how to save this December

Domestic airfares in South Africa have climbed sharply in 2026, and many travellers are feeling it ahead of the December holidays.

A return flight between Johannesburg and Cape Town cost at least R4,000 at the height of the price spike earlier this year.

But fuel isn’t the only reason.

Here’s what’s driving prices up, and how to book smarter.

JET FUEL PRICES

Fuel is the biggest factor.

When conflict broke out in the Middle East at the end of February, the price of jet fuel at South Africa’s coastal airports rose by about 70% in a single week.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the price of jet fuel roughly doubled between the end of February and April.

Fuel now accounts for more than half of the direct operating costs of each flight for South Africa’s largest domestic carrier.

Airlines responded by introducing fuel surcharges or increasing their base fares.

THE RAND-DOLLAR EXCHANGE RATE

Jet fuel, aircraft and many aircraft parts are paid for in US dollars.

So when the rand weakens against the dollar, airlines’ costs rise, even if fuel prices stay the same.

FEWER AIRLINES ON KEY ROUTES

South Africa’s domestic market has fewer airlines than it did a few years ago.

Two well-known operators stopped flying in 2022, reducing competition on busy routes such as Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban.

With fewer airlines competing for passengers, there’s less pressure to keep fares low, especially during busy periods.

TAXES AND AIRPORT CHARGES

Part of every ticket goes to taxes and airport charges, which airlines collect on behalf of airports and the government.

These are included in the final ticket price, so the price you see in a sale often isn’t the full amount you’ll pay.

HIGH DEMAND OVER DECEMBER

Airlines use dynamic pricing, which means fares rise as seats sell out.

December is one of the busiest times to fly in South Africa, so the cheapest seats go quickly.

HOW TO BOOK SMARTER THIS DECEMBER

• Book as early as possible, since the cheapest seats sell out first.
• Fly midweek, when fares are often lower than on Fridays and Sundays.
• Consider early-morning or late-night flights, which can be cheaper.
• Compare the total price, including checked luggage and seat selection, not just the advertised fare.
• Check alternative airports, such as Lanseria rather than OR Tambo, if it suits your trip.
• Set fare alerts on comparison websites, so you know when prices drop.
• Travel light, since hand-luggage-only fares are usually cheaper.
• Check whether a fuel surcharge applies to your booking, since surcharges can change.