Johannesburg: OR Tambo International Airport back to normal after severe weather disruptions!

South Africa’s Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has confirmed that air traffic operations at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are operating normally this morning, Monday, 05 January 2026. All services are continuing as scheduled, providing reassurance to travellers during one of the busiest periods of the summer travel season.

ATNS noted, however, that aviation operations are inherently dynamic and remain under continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure safety and efficiency at all times.

The authority further clarified that the flight diversions experienced on Sunday afternoon, 04 January 2026, were not the result of air traffic control staffing or human resource constraints. Instead, the disruptions were caused by severe weather conditions, including intense thunderstorms, which temporarily impacted safe aircraft operations within OR Tambo International Airport’s airspace.

ATNS reiterated that safety remains its highest priority and confirmed that it continues to work closely with airlines, airport authorities, and other aviation stakeholders to ensure the safe, orderly, and efficient management of air traffic across South Africa’s busiest airport.

Travellers are advised to stay in contact with their airlines for the latest flight updates, particularly during periods of volatile summer weather.

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Polokwane International Airport: Runway 05 Instrument Flight Procedure now operational!

Last updated 29 December 2025 

The South African Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)  has confirmed on 27 December 2025 that the Instrument Flight Procedure (IFP) for Runway 05 at Polokwane International Airport (PTG) in Polokwane in Limpopo is now valid and fully operational.

This follows ATNS’s earlier notice that the procedure would become effective on 25 December 2025, and marks an important milestone in improving aviation safety, operational resilience, and airspace efficiency in Limpopo.

What this means for travellers and airlines
The activation of the Runway 05 Instrument Flight Procedure significantly enhances instrument approach capability, particularly during low visibility and adverse weather conditions. This reduces the risk of weather-related delays and diversions, supporting more predictable flight operations for both commercial airlines and general aviation.

For passengers travelling to or from Polokwane International Airport (PTG), this translates into:

• Improved schedule reliability
• Increased operational safety
• Fewer disruptions during seasonal weather events

Peak season operations remain stable
ATNS has confirmed that the new procedure is aligned with its Peak Season Plan, implemented to manage increased air traffic volumes during the festive travel period.

According to ATNS:

• All air traffic services across South Africa’s national airspace system are operating normally
• No operational disruptions have been reported

This provides reassurance to travellers during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

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South Africa: ATNS restored instrument flight procedures (IFPs) at two airports!

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa has announced that the instrument flight procedures (IFPs) at Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) in in Bloemfontein and Kimberley Airport (KIM) in Kimberley are officially approved and operational again since 27 November 2025.

The IFPs for both airports’ Runway 02 had been temporarily suspended as part of ATNS’s ongoing instrument procedure maintenance programme, which ensures full compliance with international aviation safety standards and alignment with ATNS’s own safety management systems. Their reinstatement marks another important step in stabilising operations and rebuilding critical capacity within South Africa's airspace management infrastructure.

ATNS also reaffirmed its previously published timeline for additional reinstatements:

• Polokwane International Airport (PTG) in Polokwane is expected to resume instrument flight procedures on 25 December 2025.
• Upington International Airport (UTN) in Upington is set to follow on 22 January 2026.

Once these procedures are restored, all major South African airports will once again have operational instrument flight procedures for at least one primary runway - a significant milestone for the country’s aviation sector.

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Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) makes strong progress in restoring flight procedures across South Africa

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has announced major progress in stabilising operations and rebuilding its core technical capacity. According to Acting CEO Matome Moholola, ATNS continues to make steady advances in restoring and validating instrument flight procedures (IFPs) across South Africa’s aviation network, including several key secondary airports.

Moholola confirmed that all flight procedures remain operational at network airports, with only one outstanding procedure at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth. This final procedure has already received approval from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and will become effective on 27 November 2025.

Regional airport updates
ATNS also shared the latest updates on the implementation of IFPs at several regional airports:

• Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) in Mbombela/Nelspruit – Instrument approach procedures have been approved by SACAA and are already available for operational use.
• Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) in Bloemfontein and Kimberley Airport (KIM) in Kimberley – Procedures and charts approved; effective 27 November 2025.
• Richards Bay Airport (RCB) in Richards Bay, Upington International Airport (UTN) in Upington and Polokwane International Airport (PTG) in Polokwane – Instrument flight procedures are in the final stages of approval and are expected to go live on 25 December 2025.

These positive developments reflect ATNS’s ongoing commitment to strengthening South Africa’s aviation infrastructure, ensuring safer skies and more dependable travel across the country’s airspace network.

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Flight disruptions at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) due to ATNS delays! [update #2]

update (27 October 2025): Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) has announced that all flight operations at the airport are operating as per the usual schedule today.  

update (21 October 2025): Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) SOC Ltd has announced that Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) in Mbombela/Nelspruit may experience disruptions today due to adverse weather conditions, specifically reduced visibility caused by low cloud cover, combined with the absence of instrument flight procedures. 

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), located about 27 kilometres northeast of Mbombela/Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, has announced severe disruptions to scheduled airline services. The airport serves as the primary air gateway to the world-famous Kruger National Park, making the current situation particularly significant for travellers heading to one of Africa’s top safari destinations.

According to airport management, the disruptions stem from the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS)’ failure to meet crucial deadlines required to maintain the validity of Instrument Flight Procedures (IFPs). As a result, the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has suspended these procedures, impacting flight operations to and from the airport.

Despite the challenges, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) has confirmed that all airside infrastructure, including lighting and Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), remain fully calibrated, serviceable, and compliant with regulatory standards. The airport emphasised that the suspension of IFPs is not due to any non-compliance on its part, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining infrastructure and safety at a consistently high level.

Airport management is working closely with airline partners and ATNS to minimise disruptions and restore normal flight operations as soon as possible. Travellers using Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) are advised to stay in touch with their airlines for the latest updates regarding flight schedules and operational changes.

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South Africa: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) warns of possible flight disruptions due to weather!

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), situated about 27 km northeast of Mbombela/Nelspruit in Mpumalanga and serving as the main gateway to the iconic Kruger National Park, has advised travellers that flight operations may be affected in the coming days due to adverse weather conditions.

According to the airport management, instrument flight procedures – overseen by Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) – are currently suspended, making all flights heavily dependent on favourable weather. These circumstances are beyond the airport’s control, and passengers are encouraged to remain patient during this period.

Travellers are advised to check the official Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) website and follow its social media channels for the latest operational updates. Passengers should also contact their airline directly for specific flight information and potential schedule changes.

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System malfunction at South Africa’s busiest airport delays departures! [update]

[update 02 August 2025]: Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has confirmed that the system failure affecting Air Traffic Control (ATC) operations at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg has been successfully restored.

The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa has confirmed a systems failure affecting operations at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The disruption involves the Flight Plan Management System, a critical component of Air Traffic Control (ATC), resulting in departure delays and operational disruptions.
ATNS is actively coordinating with all relevant aviation stakeholders to minimise flight delays and manage the situation as efficiently as possible. While the issue impacts departures, strict safety protocols remain in place, and air traffic is being managed with utmost caution to ensure passenger safety.
Travellers flying through O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight status updates. ATNS has assured the public that every effort is being made to restore normal operations swiftly and to keep disruptions to a minimum.

Stay tuned to umhambi.blogspot.com for ongoing updates regarding the situation at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.

 

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South Africa: ATNS updates navigation at key airports! [update]

update (29 April 2025): The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa has announced significant progress in maintaining Instrument Flight Procedures. During March and April 2025, ATNS has been able to submit all nine priority approach procedures for OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban, Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth, and King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). Two of these procedures have already been approved, with the remaining seven currently undergoing ground validation.
ATNS recognises that there is still a lot of work to be done, especially the maintenance of the arrival and departure procedures at King Shaka International Airport (DUR) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town. Furthermore, ATNS is pleased to report that all 19 priority arrival and departure procedures for OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) have been submitted and approved by the SACAA. The publication of six of these arrival and departure procedures will become effective on 15 May 2025. The rest will become effective from June 2025 onwards.
Through our international Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) headhunting initiative, ATNS has recruited 18 ATCOs. 17 have accepted employment, with one still in negotiation.

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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George Airport (GRJ): Possible flight disruptions due to severe weather! [update #4]

update (14 March 2025): ACSA just confirmed that, due to adverse weather conditions, some flights to and from George Airport (GRJ) in George have been impacted. 

update (14 March 2025): South African regional and domestic carrier FlySafair has informed its customers that six flights to and from George Airport (GRJ) in George have been canceled today. The airline also announced delays of 10 flights taking place today due to the weather in George.

update (14 March 2025): According to ACSA, operations at George Airport (GRJ) in George are currently back to normal. However, for extra caution, ACSA recommends to check with your airline for any potential changes.

update (13 March 2025): Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that due to adverse weather conditions, some flights to and from George Airport (GRJ) in George have been impacted.

The South African Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has issued a notice about potential flight disruptions at George Airport (GRJ) in George in South Africa's Western Cape due to severe weather conditions. Strong and hazardous winds are currently favoring the use of Runway 11, but its Instrument Landing System (ILS) is temporarily unavailable due to an ongoing flight procedure maintenance program. Additionally, the region is experiencing a low cloud base of less than 500 feet, which may further impact flight operations. Travellers are advised to stay updated on flight schedules and check with airlines for potential delays or cancellations.

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Western Cape: Flight disruptions expected at George Airport (GRJ) due to severe weather! [update #2]

update (28 January 2025): Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has released an updater egarding the flight disruptions that began yesterday at George Airport (GRJ) in George in South Africa's Western Cape due to severe inclement weather conditions.
The airport is still affected by a low cloud base and strong surface winds that make landing on Runway 29 not feasible. Aircraft are therefore forced to operate on Runway 11, whose instrument landing system (ILS) flight procedure is still under maintenance.  As a result, some flights are forced to divert as a safety precaution. 

update (28 January 2025): According to FlySafair, adverse weather conditions are still affecting flight operations at George Airport (GRJ) in George in South Africa's Western Cape.

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company responsible for air traffic, navigation, training, and related services in South Africa, has announced that flight disruptions are expected at George Airport (GRJ) in George in South Africa's Western Cape today due to severe weather conditions.
ATNS has indicated that the current weather conditions around the airport are not safe for aircraft operations. The wind direction requires the use of Runway 11, but its instrument landing system (ILS) flight procedure is still undergoing maintenance. Stay tuned for updates!

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East London: ATNS secures approval for Runway 11 instrument landing system at King Phalo Airport (ELS)!

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company that provides air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, has announced that the instrument landing system (ILS) flight procedure for Runway 11 at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London has been approved by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). According to ATNS, this ensures that both runways, 29 and 11, at the airport will have valid procedures in place. As a result of this development, flight operations at King Phalo Airport (ELS) are expected to improve, reducing the likelihood of flight disruptions as witnessed recently. We'll keep you posted!

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Eastern Cape: Significant flight disruptions at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London! [update]

update (22 Octobe 2024): According to Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), today's flight disruptions at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London were not related to the instrument flight procedure maintenance programme. ATNS can confirm that flight procedures for the two runways in this airport are operational. This morning, the airport experienced severe weather conditions that fell below acceptable approach minima. The cloud base was under 300 feet, requiring missed approaches (go-arounds) until conditions improved.

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has informed the public that King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape is currently experiencing significant flight disruptions, which have impacted both inbound and outbound flights. According to ACSA, this is due to adverse weather conditions today, 22 October 2024.
The disruptions have been compounded by lapsed Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) procedures. ACSA and ATNS are coordinating efforts to address these procedural lapses and restore normal flight operations promptly. All passengers affected by delays are advised to contact their airlines directly for information regarding rebooking and are further encouraged to verify the status of their flights before traveling to the airport. We'll keep you posted!

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George Airport (GRJ): Adverse weather conditions are currently affecting operations! [update]

update (21 October 2024): Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), which operates George Airport (GRJ), confirmed that due to adverse weather conditions, some flights to and from  George Airport (GRJ) have been cancelled until further notice.

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company that provides air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, has informed the public that inclement weather conditions are currently affecting operations at George Airport (GRJ) in George in South Africa's Western Cape. According to ATNS, this adverse weather is negatively impacting airport operations. We'll keep you posted!

Runway Status:
Runway 29 (RWY 29): Although RWY 29 has a valid flight procedure, it is currently unavailable due to prevailing wind conditions. This may result in flight delays and potential diversions.
Runway 11 (RWY 11): Wind direction favours this runway, however, the flight procedure for RWY 11 was submitted to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) for approval yesterday. We are expecting an outcome soon. [src.]

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Mthatha Airport (UTT): Flight disruptions expected due to inclement weather conditions!

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company that provides air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, has informed the public that inclement weather conditions are currently affecting operations at Mthatha Airport (UTT) in Mthatha in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Flight disruptions can therefore be expected.
Mthatha Airport (UTT) does have a valid Instrument Flight Procedure for runway (RWY) 14, the runway currently in use today (11 October 2024). However, due to the severe weather conditions this morning, operations are adversely affected as safety is prioritised. We'll keep you posted!

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South Africa: OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is experiencing delays!

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is currently experiencing rotational delays. This is affecting operations for both international and domestic departures. Passengers are therefor urged to contact their respective airlines or agents for updated flight times.
According to Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the state-owned provider of air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, the delays are a result of unavailable Standard Instrument Departures and Standard Instrument Arrivals that serve operations for Runway 21. This means that generally such delays are experienced when the wind direction favours this particular Runway 21 especially during high peak periods, which was the case today (14 August 2024). The result of this requires ATNS to regulate the demand to ensure that available capacity is not exceeded and safety is prioritized at all times.
ATNS is working around the situation to ensure that delays can be minimised as best as possible to reduce the impact on the airlines and travelling passengers. Furthermore, ATNS is working hard to conclude the maintenance of the affected flight procedures to submit to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) for validation and approval as soon as possible. We'll keep you posted! 

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