King Phalo Airport receives between 20 and 30 aeroplanes per day and is estimated to serve 620,000 people per year. It is a busy link in the cargo flight route, supporting the province’s industrial and automotive industries.

In 2016, King Phalo Airport was voted the fastest-growing airport in South Africa, having accomplished an almost 19% increase in traffic over a 12-month period.

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) spokesperson Mphilo Dlamini confirmed that there were flight disruptions, delays and cancellations at the airport “due to today’s unfavourable weather conditions and lack of instrument flight procedures”.

“King Phalo Airport operates two precision approach runways: Runway 29 and Runway 11. Currently, aircraft can depart and land without interruption when Runway 29 is in use. For Runway 11, aircraft cannot land during inclement weather conditions like today (Tuesday).

“However, the ATNS can confirm that the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has assured the entity that instrument flight procedures for Runway 11 are being expedited and approvals are expected by Wednesday (9 October).

“The urgency with which the ATNS in addressing the suspended instrument flight procedures underlines our dedication to enhancing overall service delivery and safety for all airspace users. The ATNS will keep passengers and airspace users informed of the latest developments.”

Ernest Mulibana, spokesperson for Airports Company South Africa (Acsa), said that all inbound and outgoing flights had been postponed owing to bad weather conditions in East London.

Unathi Binqose from the Eastern Cape Department of Transport said they have noted the “outcry” of travellers on the delays and cancellation of flights from the King Phalo Airport.

“The delays are said to be due to navigation systems that are further exacerbated by poor visibility due to adverse weather conditions in most parts of the province, including East London,” he said.

“The department, as custodians of transport in the province, is in contact with its national counterpart to constantly check on progress while lasting solutions are sought for the navigation challenges.”

ACSA said flights would remain postponed until further notice.

[source:dailymaverick]