Airlink flights on the route between Mthatha and Johannesburg are officially back on track. This follows the fixing of the landing system at Mthatha Airport following the suspension of flights by Airlink between Mthatha and OR Tambo international airports two weeks ago because navigation beacons that needed repairs at Mthatha Airport.
Two service providers, SIA Solutions and Excellec Systems, have been working around the clock to fix the landing system at Mthatha Airport with the main challenge being to get some outstanding spares due to the fact that the airport’s system is too old as it dates back to the 1970s.
The situation was exacerbated by bad weather patterns in the Mthatha area. The Eastern Cape Department of Transport would like to express its sincere gratitude to all the passengers, who despite the inconvenience understood our challenge.
This emergency repairs operation will now be followed by a major overhaul of the system in order to meet the world standards. A service provider has been appointed for this project and the new system has been procured from the United States of America.
This project will run concurrently with the upgrade of the Mthatha Airport by three Mthatha based construction companies with a particular focus on the building of a temporary relocation structure, terminal building upgrade, civil works and fencing. The main aim is to improve the capacity, use and management of the airport as a viable economic asset that contributes positively to tourism in the region.
As part of the long term preparation of the airport, the department has appointed a contractor to do the overhaul of the entire landing system in line with phase one of the Mthatha Airport Refurbishment project, which is currently underway.
The upgrade will enable the airport to accommodate late flights. The lighting upgrade has been completed and inspected by the South African Civil Aviation Authority, which then issued a night rating for Mthatha Airport. The building will boast one of the most beautiful roof finishes which will bring life to the airport.
Discussions with other sectoral stakeholders have indicated that this upgrade will provide assistance in the promotion of tourism in the eastern half of the province, especially in the Wild Coast region.
Enquiries:
Ncedo Kumbaca
Cell: 082 442 2388
Issued by: Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
5 February 2010
