Ministers must address air traffic failures threatening South Africa’s tourism and economy

5 September 2024

The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls on Minister Patricia de Lille to engage with the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, to address the ongoing crisis within Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) as a matter of national priority. Immediate intervention is required to prevent further damage to South Africa’s tourism sector and economy, which are already under severe strain.

Minister Creecy recently gave ATNS two weeks to resolve serious operational failings, following a meeting 10 days ago. However, we are deeply concerned that these steps may not be enough to address the systemic issues plaguing the entity. ATNS has failed to update its regulatory procedures in line with international standards, while aging infrastructure and a shortage of trained and experienced staff continue to cripple its performance.

These failures are jeopardising South Africa’s compliance with international air safety regulations and, by extension, our reputation as a prime tourist destination. The impact on tourism, which is a vital economic enabler, cannot be overstated.

With the country still grappling with high unemployment, rising poverty, and a stagnant economy, tourism is one of the key sectors that can drive economic recovery. However, inefficiencies at ATNS are frustrating international and domestic travelers, damaging our standing in the global tourism market, and stifling economic activity for small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) reliant on tourism.

The disruptions caused by ATNS have already led to significant delays for airlines, and local airports such as those in George and Mthatha face potential closure due to outdated regulations. These airports are crucial hubs for domestic travel, and any disruption to their limited flight schedules threatens their viability and the livelihoods of the communities they serve.

We urge Minister de Lille and Minister Creecy to prioritise fixing the issues at ATNS immediately. The leadership of ATNS must be held accountable, and the company must undergo an urgent overhaul to bring its operations in line with international safety standards and restore confidence in our air traffic system.

Issued by Haseena Ismail, DA Spokesperson on Tourism, 5 September 2024