So for those of you who don’t know about new start-up FastJet, it is the new venture run by Stelios, the original easyJet guru who helped create the phenomenon of the low cost carrier. This venture is touted as the new ‘easyJet’ of Africa and whilst it most likely will have to compete with a variety of still developing countries and limited African airspace regulations, it has the basic foundations of a great airline. A focussed board of directors, secure funding and a fast start up momentum, along with the partnering with airline fly540 they already have the network and passenger base to give them a kick start.
The new livery however, seems a little familiar. Orange and white? Where have we seen that before? Orange nacelles and simplistic font seem to be a formula that worked in the past, and most likely will succeed again. Sadly though, I can’t help but feel it’s a little bit of a let down. When easyJet’s original livery came out, it was a refreshing change from the staid designs of flag carriers, yet now, it’s tired and overused. The fact that Fly540 also sports an orange livery no doubt reinforces the fact they’ve gone with orange as their new brand colour, but also shows how overused this design is now.
Whilst a working concept, I hope that it is developed. Airlines like Volotea have shown that low cost doesn’t have to mean ugly.
