Severe Flight Disruptions Hit Kruger Airport

n

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) has confirmed severe disruptions to scheduled flights due to the suspension of instrument flight procedures (IFPs) by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). The suspension follows Air Traffic and Navigation Services' (ATNS) failure to meet critical deadlines to maintain the validity of these procedures.

nnnn

The airport assured travellers that its runways, lighting, and instrument landing systems (ILS) are fully functional and regularly audited. "The suspension of instrument flight procedures is not due to any non-compliance by KMIA," the airport said in a statement.

nnnn

Without approved IFPs, aircraft can only land or take off under clear weather conditions, leading to delays, cancellations and diversions. The disruptions have affected hundreds of passengers travelling between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport since last week.

nnnn

n

nnnn

n

nnnn

According to reports, ATNS has suspended more than 200 IFPs nationwide since July, including those at regional airports in Polokwane, Richards Bay and Mthatha. The delays are linked to a backlog in renewing procedures that require SACAA approval.

nnnn

The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA), which oversees KMIA, said it is working closely with airlines to minimise inconvenience. "We will continue to keep the public informed as ATNS works to resolve the issue," said the MTPA.

nnnn

Tourism businesses in the province fear that the disruptions could impact visitor numbers to the Kruger Lowveld region, especially as the festive season approaches.

nnnn

KMIA and its airline partners await ATNS to complete the required submissions so SACAA can reinstate the flight procedures. Passengers are advised to check with airlines before travelling and to monitor updates from the airport.

n