Her airline, founded in 2004, is called SRS Aviation and is the only Black woman-owned and operated aviation company on the entire continent of Africa.
Getting her company off the ground
As can be imagined, starting an airline is not easy or cheap. To create capital, Sibongile had to sell her car and cash out her mother’s pension. It was risky, but it worked!
Not only was she able to obtain an Air Operating Certificate from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), she was also able to raise the needed capital to buy aircraft.
Soon after, she started bidding for contracts and eventually won a major government contract for cargo transport. She even formed a partnership with another South African-based fixed & rotor wing charter operator.
A different revenue model
Sibongile's idea was not to compete with commercial airlines. Instead, she created an aviation company that offers luxury and personalized flight options to destinations in Africa and around the world.
Her company's services include VIP charters, tourist charters, cargo charters, helicopter services, and more. Her customers pay anywhere from $1,000 USD to $200,000 USD per flight.
Her ultimate goal is to uphold the highest safety standards, and become the preferred choice in affordable air service solutions for individuals and businesses, both locally and globally.
For more details about her company, visit www.srsaviation.co.za
Watch her interview below:
