Following a successful multi million refurbishment, MEC Ghishma Barry will host the Bhisho Airport stakeholders session on Thursday 30 July 2009 at 10h00 to engage possible investors.
This platform will be used to concretise the way forward in ensuring the implementation of the Blue Skyway Aviation strategy, which seeks to bring new life to the Bhisho and Mthatha airports and revitalise the rural airstrips within the province.
The main objective of this strategy is to ensure adherence to the national policy White Paper on Civil Aviation of March 2005, where it is stated that government should not be involved in operating airports, but should encourage private sector involvement. Government, however, remains responsible for ensuring that airports contribute to the socio-economic development of the area.
“Our doors are wide open for any investor that wants to come forward and add value in this project,” says MEC Barry.
The airport has one of the longest and strongest runaways in South Africa. It is a technically advanced airport situated less than 10 kilometres from King William’s Town and is close to the improved road network leading to all directions. The airport is a stone’s throw away from the capital of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, close to the East London port, historic places such as the University of Fort Hare, tourist destinations such as the Wild Coast and the Amatole Mountains. It is currently housing the South African Police Service (SAPS) Air Wing and the internationally renowned 43 air school. To date, the airport is the second largest aviation training centre in Africa.
Discussions are underway with various airlines to ensure that the airport becomes economically active. Expected proposals include further development of airport facilities for business purposes, vehicle hire, shuttle services, catering services etc.
MEC Barry is expected to outline the Department of Roads and Transport’s plans for the airport.
Enquiries:
Ncedo Kumbaca
Cell: 082 442 2388
Issued by: Department of Roads and Transport, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
26 July 2009
