FlySafair suspends Hoedspruit flights until mid-February 2026 after flood damage!

South African regional airline FlySafair has confirmed the suspension of all flights to and from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, until 14 February 2026, citing severe flood damage to critical airport infrastructure.

The decision follows widespread heavy rainfall and flooding across the greater Lowveld region, which has recently been declared a national disaster. The extreme weather has caused extensive damage across Limpopo and Mpumalanga, including parts of the Kruger National Park, significantly disrupting transport networks and tourism operations.

Hoedspruit Airport Infrastructure Severely Affected
At Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), prolonged heavy rainfall has caused substantial runway damage, while the airport’s radar system is currently non-operational. According to FlySafair, these conditions have compromised operational safety, making it unsafe for aircraft to land or depart until repairs are completed and safety assessments are finalised.

FlySafair has emphasised that the suspension is a safety-driven decision, in line with aviation regulations and established risk management protocols.

Passenger rebooking and refund options
All passengers affected by the suspension will be contacted directly using the details provided at the time of booking. Customers will be offered the following options:

• Rebook to a later travel date or an alternative route at no additional cost, or
• Request a full refund for the affected flight(s).

Passengers are advised to monitor their email inboxes and FlySafair’s official communication channels for further updates.

Impact on tourism in the greater Lowveld region/greater Kruger region
Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) serves as a key gateway to the Greater Kruger National Park, including private reserves and lodges in the Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa, and surrounding Lowveld areas. The suspension is expected to temporarily affect travel plans for both domestic and international visitors, particularly during the late summer safari season.

Other airlines operating at hoedspruit
South African regional airlines Airlink and CemAir are currently operating flights to and from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS).

• Airlink resumed scheduled services on 16 January 2026, following a brief suspension. Operations remain subject to favourable local weather and road conditions.
• CemAir has also reinstated its flights, following improved weather assessments issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

Travellers are advised to remain flexible and confirm flight status directly with their airline prior to departure.

 

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Limpopo: Eastgate Airport underwent major refurbishment!

Eastgate Airport (HDS), also known as Hoedspruit Airport, in Hoedspruit in South Africa's Limpopo province underwent a major refurbishment which started in mid-2020 and was completed in early November 2021. With an average of 150 monthly flights and over 7000 passengers passing through its gates any given month, the airport needed an upgrade to better service its growing clientele of residents in the surrounding area and tourists visiting the Kruger National Park and private game reserves. The renovations included:

• A complete overhaul of the entrance gate
• Installation of additional check-in counters to assist with the high volume of passengers
• Increase in the size of the departure lounge to allow for ample seating
• The curio shop and refreshment kiosk received a major revamp
• The size of the baggage claim area was increased
• An ungrade of the boarding area to include a comfortable and sheltered waiting area with sufficient seating
• The fitting of the car park area with a large section of shading, sponsored by Kapama Private Game Reserve. Guests visiting Kapama Private Game Reserve now have the luxury of climbing onto shaded game vehicles before driving across the road to begin their safari adventure at one of the Reserve’s four luxury 5-star lodges.

© eastgateairport.co.za

Eastgate Airport / Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) currently operates scheduled flights from Airlink and CemAir from both Johannesburg and Cape Town, as well as private charter flights.
The airport is located just outside Hoedspruit, in the eastern reaches of South Africa’s Limpopo province. The airport offers quick access to Kruger National Park as well as to the towns of Tzaneen and Phalaborwa.