The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa, in close collaboration with the Ministerial Intervention Team (MIT) appointed by the South African Minister of Transport, has taken decisive action to ensure the safety and efficiency of the country’s airspace. Maintenance of critical Instrument Flight Procedures (IFPs) has been prioritised to guarantee that key network airports across South Africa remain fully equipped with essential instrument approach capabilities.
All vital flight approach procedures have been submitted to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and received official approval. This includes updated instrument approach procedures at the following major South African airports:
- OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) – Johannesburg
- King Shaka International Airport (DUR) – Durban
- Dawie Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) – Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – Cape Town
- Polokwane International Airport (PTG) – Polokwane
- Lanseria International Airport (HLA) – Johannesburg
- George Airport (GRJ) – George
- King Phalo Airport (ELS) – East London
These updates help maintain safe and reliable air travel across South Africa, especially during poor weather conditions, ensuring smooth connectivity for both domestic and international passengers.
As of 08 April 2025, flight procedures at the following airports in South Africa are temporarily suspended due to pending maintenance:
- Richards Bay Airport (RCB) – Richards Bay
- Upington Airport (UTN) – Upington
- Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) – Bloemfontein
Until maintenance is completed, these airports will only be accessible under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC). This means that flights will only operate during clear weather with no instrument approach access available in low-visibility or adverse weather conditions.
ATNS has confirmed that restoring full operational procedures at these regional airports is a top priority, with efforts underway to resume safe and weather-independent operations as soon as possible.
In a positive development, ATNS has announced that ten new Air Traffic Controllers have accepted job offers and will begin joining the organisation in the coming months. This boost in personnel will significantly enhance ATNS’ capacity to manage and maintain safe, efficient, and uninterrupted air navigation services. Recruitment for additional critical skills remains ongoing.
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