When you are a startup and your competition consists of very strong companies, you have to innovate big style. One of the best examples is Kulula Airlines, a small low-budget airline company from South Africa which it’s known for its quirky sense of business humor. In February 2010, Kulula put into service a Boeing 737-800, called “Flying 101” that featured an amusing exterior design, identifying various parts of the plane. The aircraft was designed by their in-house design department, starting from the idea of demystify air travel for their passengers.

Kulula’s airline attendants and pilots are known for injecting a sense of humour into situations. Here are some real examples that have been heard or reported:

– “Please pay attention to the safety announcement, because you will be writing a test shortly”.

– “If you are caught smoking, you will be asked to leave the aircraft”.

– “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve reached cruising altitude and will be turning down the cabin lights. This is for your comfort and to enhance the appearance of your flight attendants.”

– “Me Tarzan, You on hold”, when phoning Kulula and being put on hold.

– “To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull the belt tight. It works just like every other seat belt; and, if you don’t know how to operate one by now, then you probably shouldn’t be allowed out in public unsupervised.”

– “There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane.”

– “In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child travelling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are travelling with more than one small child, pick your favourite.”

– “Your seat cushions can be used for flotation; and in the event of an emergency water landing, please paddle to shore and take them with our compliments.”

– As the plane landed and was coming to a stop at Durban Airport, a lone voice came over the loudspeaker: “Whoa, big fella. WHOA!”

– “Kulula Airlines is pleased to announce that we have some of the best flight attendants in the industry. Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!”