Inbound industry association, SATSA, has called for immediate corrective measures in response to the recent indefinite suspension of Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) for instrument-based approaches at South African airports.
This indefinite suspension, affecting airports such as George, Kimberley, Polokwane, Mthatha, Upington, East London, Skukuza and Richards Bay, has severely disrupted domestic air travel. Major international gateways like OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airports are also operating with limited capacity.
Instrument Flight Procedures are indispensable for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of aircraft, particularly under Instrument Flight Rule conditions where visibility is compromised. These procedures are meticulously designed to account for terrain and obstacles, providing pilots with the necessary guidance to navigate safely in adverse weather conditions and during night-time operations. The current suspension is due to a lapse in the regular maintenance and re-evaluation of these procedures, a process that is fundamental to their ongoing safety and efficacy.
The result has been widespread flight delays, diversions and cancellations, leaving passengers stranded and causing significant consequences for the country's tourism and economy.
The inability to promptly update and maintain these critical procedures not only jeopardises flight safety but also undermines confidence in our aviation system, said David Frost , CEO SATSA.
