JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – July 18, 2025 – In a significant development for South Africa’s business aviation sector, Comair Flight Services (CFS) has announced a comprehensive restructuring of its shareholding and a rebranding effort, marking a decisive step away from the legacy of its former parent company, the now-liquidated Comair Limited. The company will now operate under the new identity of CFS Aviation Group.
This strategic transformation sees Parrot Aviation, the holding company of Federal Airlines (South Africa), acquiring the 50% stake in CFS previously held by Comair General Aviation Holdings. Simultaneously, co-founder and long-serving Chief Executive Justin Reeves has secured the remaining shares from other minority holders. This move, which has received unconditional approval from the South African Competition Commission, effectively concludes a 12-year partnership with Comair.
A New Chapter for Business Aviation
“This marks an exciting new chapter in the CFS journey,” stated Justin Reeves, Group CEO of CFS Aviation Group. “The new structure reinforces our long-term vision, strengthens our shareholder base, and preserves our operational independence. Our clients can expect the same exceptional service, safety, and professionalism they’ve come to know, with renewed energy and focus.”
The rebranding to CFS Aviation Group signifies the company’s evolution into a fully independent and integrated business aviation entity. While sharing a common shareholder in Parrot Aviation, CFS Aviation Group and Federal Airlines will continue to operate as distinct and independent brands, each with separate leadership and operational structures. CFS Aviation Group will retain its own Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), with Reeves remaining at the helm.
Strengthening the Shareholder Base and Operational Independence
The new ownership structure is poised to bolster CFS Aviation Group’s financial stability and operational agility. Parrot Aviation’s investment also brings a transformation-aligned ownership structure, notably including majority black ownership and representation by black women, aligning CFS with broader empowerment initiatives in South Africa.
Headquartered at Lanseria International Airport, CFS Aviation Group offers a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Aircraft Management: Providing tailored solutions for aircraft owners.
- Charter Services: Operating a diverse fleet of aircraft for business and leisure travel, including Learjet 45s, Citation M2s, Pilatus PC-24s, Beech King Air B200s, and PC-12s.
- Aircraft Sales: Facilitating the acquisition and sale of business jets.
- FBO Operations: Offering fixed-base operator services for private and business aircraft.
The previous Comair Limited, which operated British Airways flights and the low-cost carrier Kulula.com, entered business rescue in 2020 and was eventually placed into liquidation in June 2022 due to the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other financial pressures. The restructuring of Comair Flight Services ensures its continued operation as a vital component of South Africa’s aviation landscape, free from the challenges that led to its former parent company’s demise.
The establishment of CFS Aviation Group with its reinforced shareholder base and clear brand identity is a strong signal of renewed confidence and growth within South Africa’s thriving business aviation sector.
