Commercial flights at several regional airports, including Polokwane International Airport, faced significant delays and cancellations yesterday, stranding frustrated passengers as the airports await the approval of new, mandatory landing procedures.
The disruption stems from the expiration of critical instrument landing procedures in August 2024. The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the entity responsible for developing and maintaining these procedures, has yet to secure full approval for a new regulatory framework from the Civil Aviation Authority.
Mukari Madi, CEO of the Polokwane International Airport, confirmed the cause of the travel chaos. “The situation right now is that our procedures actually expired in August 2024,” Madi stated. He explained that the delay in approval means pilots can no longer rely solely on instrument guidance to land in poor weather and must instead depend on visual observation of the runway.
This has a direct impact on operations, particularly during early mornings and evenings when cloud cover, rain, or low light compromises visibility. “Hence you see that in the morning and mostly in the evening those flights are either delayed or, in worst cases, they are actually cancelled,” Madi said.
The problem is not new. According to Madi, the procedures were suspended approximately eight days ago. Yesterday marked the third major delay, following two full cancellations last week.
The ripple effect has been felt across the region. Other affected airports include Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, Pietermaritzburg, Richards Bay, and Mthatha. At Polokwane International Airport, frustrated passengers destined for cities like Mthatha and the OR Tambo International Airport were seen cancelling their trips.
While the airport remains open, uncertainty continues for travelers. Madi reported that ATNS was re-certified last Friday and has submitted some procedures, which received approval over the weekend. However, critical components are still outstanding.
“[ATNS] haven’t given us a definite date,” Madi said, “but I know that they are working on it day and night to make sure that the matter is resolved.”
For now, airlines and passengers are left in a holding pattern, awaiting the essential regulatory approval that will restore normal flight schedules.