Africa’s first pan African low cost carrier fastjet has unveiled its new brand and plans to begin selling tickets next week ahead of the airline’s first flight this month.

The new branding, which replaces the existing placeholder logo, features the well-known African Grey Parrot which was carefully selected following in-depth market research in Africa and reflects the Company’s mission, values and target audience.

Commenting on the new branding, fastjet Chief Executive Ed Winter said: “The African Grey is renowned for its intelligence and is therefore a perfect personification of fastjet’s motto; smart travel. 

“We are delighted to be unveiling this new branding today, which better reflects our individual corporate identity and speaks to our key audiences.

“We hope that our friendly new mascot and logo will soon become universally recognised as symbols of reliability, efficiency and safety.”

The airline now has three Airbus A319s as part of its fleet. All three aircraft are in the process of being painted with the fastjet livery before being dispatched to Tanzania ready for the launch.

The airline’s new web site http://www.fastjet.com will launch next week providing information on routes and fare schedules.

The site will soon allow tickets to be bought using credit/debit cards as well as mobile phone technology that debits the users phone accounts.

Additionally, tickets will be sold through travel agents and fastjet’s own sales desk, call centre and offices throughout East Africa.

Tickets will be available from $20 one-way excluding taxes and charges.

fastjet Chairman David Lenigas added: “We are excited that the launch is now imminent and that fastjet will be turning from a concept into a reality.

“A recent story emanating from East Africa and picked up by the Daily Telegraph contained material inaccuracies regarding disputes with two Fly540 (Kenya) suppliers.

“Whilst we are not able to comment directly on these specific cases, we can confirm that the amounts in dispute are not deemed material, and that we will vigorously defend the company’s interests as these cases progress. Our shareholders would expect us only to settle invoices that are accurate and appropriate.

“The launch of fastjet has generated enormous interest in East Africa and we are delighted with the strong partnerships being forged with suppliers and Governments across the region.

“Our announced launch and growth plans remain firmly on track,” Lenigas concluded.