Speaking notes for the Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) held at Kempton Park on 21 July 2023 at 10h00
Chairperson of the Board of the ATNS, Mr Zola Majavu
Members of the Board of the ATNS
Deputy Director-General: Aviation, Mr Zakhele Thwala
Chief Executive Officer of the ATNS, Ms Nozipho Mdawe
Senior Officials of the Department of Transport
Captains of industry in our midst
ATNS Executive Management and Staff
Invited Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
Introduction
Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and esteemed colleagues,
Today, we gather here to celebrate a momentous occasion - the 30-year journey of excellence, accomplishments, and dedication of Air Traffic Navigation Services Soc Limited in South Africa. On this day in 1993, a visionary step was taken, and our nation's aviation industry was forever transformed. This landmark anniversary marks three decades of unwavering commitment to safety, efficiency, and innovation in the aviation industry.
As we reflect on this remarkable milestone, let us explore the journey that has shaped ATNS into the beacon of excellence it is today. To guide us through this journey, let me pose a few questions:
• How did it all begin? At the inception of ATNS, what were the aspirations and visions of its founders?
• What were the early challenges faced by ATNS, and how were they overcome to pave the way for future success?
• What role did ATNS play in revolutionizing air traffic management and navigation services in South Africa over the past three decades?
• How has ATNS contributed to the growth and development of the aviation industry, and what impact has it had on regional and global aviation safety?
• In an ever-changing technological landscape, how has ATNS embraced innovation to stay at the forefront of air traffic management practices?
• What partnerships and collaborations have been instrumental in shaping ATNS's journey, and how have these relationships contributed to its success?
• Can we highlight some of the most significant achievements, accolades, and awards that ATNS has received during its 30-year history?
• What initiatives has ATNS undertaken to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility in aviation?
• How has ATNS nurtured and developed talent within the organization, ensuring a skilled and dedicated workforce for the future?
• Looking forward, what are ATNS's aspirations and plans for the coming years? How will it continue to lead and inspire the aviation community?
As we answer these questions, it becomes evident that ATNS has been much more than just an air traffic navigation service provider; it has been a catalyst for progress, a guardian of safety, and an enabler of dreams. This celebration is not only a time to commemorate past achievements but also an opportunity to envision a future filled with even greater accomplishments.
Chief Executive Officers who have been at the helm of the ATNS
Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and aviation enthusiasts,
Three decades ago, a team of dedicated professionals embarked on a journey to enhance the safety and efficiency of our skies. We pay tribute to the visionaries who played pivotal roles in the formation and growth of the ATNS, amongst the key figures the Chief Executive Officers who led this ground-breaking organization include Gerrie Coetzee, Johan van Volenhoven, Wrenell Stander, the iconic Patrick Dlamini, the stellar Thabani Mthiyane and the current CEO Ms Nozipho Mndawe the second female CEO to lead this organization.
Their unwavering determination and passion for aviation laid the foundation and have left an indelible mark on what we proudly recognize as the Air Traffic Navigation Service of South Africa.
When I joined the Department of Transport, I was delegated to oversight the ATNS amongst other SOEs. The ATNS CEO then was Mr Patrick Dlamini, a visionary with a keen understanding of the aviation landscape, brought to the table a wealth of knowledge and experience. His foresight and strategic thinking paved the way for a service that would not only enhance safety but also elevate the efficiency of our airspace management. As a leader, Patrick Dlamini's unwavering commitment to excellence and safety set the standard for the entire aviation industry.
He was thereafter followed by the late Mr Thabani Mthiyane, who took the baton and ran with the vision. Mr Mthiyane, brought a unique perspective to the table. With a deep technical expertise and a passion for innovation, he played a critical role in integrating cutting-edge technologies into the Air Traffic
Navigation Service. Under his guidance, the service embraced modern systems that have propelled it to become one of the most advanced and reliable navigation services in the world.
We now have the Ms Nozipho Mndawe the current ATNS CEO, who resumed office in April last year. She hit the ground running, enterprising and is bringing fresh innovative solutions to the organization. In her hands supported by the Board and the Executive management of the ATNS we believe that we are shaping the ATNS of the future, that will continue claim and sustain its position in the global arena by providing cutting edge air traffic management solutions.
Over the past 30 years, the Air Traffic Navigation Service has achieved remarkable milestones under their stewardship. From implementing state-of-the-art air traffic control systems to ensuring seamless coordination between air traffic controllers and pilots, their vision and guidance have shaped the service into what it is today.
While their contributions have been significant, they would be the first to acknowledge that their success is a result of the collective efforts of a dedicated team. The air traffic controllers, engineers, technicians, and support staff, all working tirelessly behind the scenes, have been the backbone of this service's success.
The poignant contributions that have been made by ATNS Boards of Directors has significantly contributed to what the organization is today. I must say many Boards have represented the Shareholder well and carried out their fiduciary duties with patriotism and selflessness. They have provided leadership and space for the organization to thrive. To the current Board led by the Chairperson Advocate Majavu, please know that South
Africa stand on your shoulders. Your remarkable contribution to build a progressive developmental state out of South Africa will be engraved in the hallmark of this nation’s history.
Programme Director, on behalf of the people of South Africa, we salute the men and women who have tirelessly worked to make ATNS a symbol of excellence. Your dedication, passion, and resilience have shaped this company into what it is today - an organization that exemplifies the best of what South Africa has to offer.
Achievements of the ATNS over the 30 years
Programme Director;
Reflecting on the past 30 years, we cannot help but marvel at the numerous milestones and achievements that have shaped this service. From humble beginnings to becoming a cutting-edge organization, the Air Traffic Navigation Service has continuously evolved to meet the demands of a dynamic and rapidly growing aviation landscape.
1993:
• ATNS is founded.
1995:
• The ATNS college is established to provide air traffic and navigation-related training. The college that was established in 1995 is now called the ATNS Training Academy ranking amongst the best in the world and have trained Air Traffic Controllers who have progressed in their career paths, and have occupied international position in a plethora of world class organizations. Some of these are former Presidents of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
1996:
• Upgrade of Durban International and Port Elizabeth control towers.
1997:
• Completion of Project Pronav.
1998:
• ATNS receives ISO accreditation.
1999:
• Installation of the Satellite Surveillance and Communication System (ADS/CPDLC) for the Indian Ocean area. A new high-frequency radio system is also installed.
2000:
• Project Speakeasy is completed. ATNS is awarded a contract for Aeronautical Surveying by the FAA. The Aviation Training Academy is established through partnerships with Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).
2001:
• Installation of a 3D Air Traffic Control simulator at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy.
2002:
• Construction begins on the South African Advanced Air Traffic System (SAAATS).
2003: The main system at the Johannesburg control centre is accepted (SAAATS Project).
2004:
• Completion of the SAAATS Project.
2005:
• Global Navigational Satellite System (GNSS) implementation.
2006:
• Proposed SADC Upper Airspace Control Centre (UACC) implementation.
2007:
• Launch of ATNS's Safety Management System (SMS).
2008:
• ATNS conducts various firsts, including CISM training courses, ATNS Safety Week, and participation in CANSO safety culture working group.
2009:
• Control tower construction at King Shaka International Airport.
2010:
• Implementation of the Central Airspace Management Unit (CAMU) Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) tool.
2011:
• Installation and commissioning of the Total Control 3D aerodrome control simulator. ATNS receives the IATA Worldwide Top Regional Training Partner Award.
2012:
• Inauguration of the NAFISAT Master Back-up Terminal in Uganda. Launch of the ATNS AVI AFRIQUE Africa Aviation Innovation Summit. ATNS receives the IATA Worldwide Top Regional Training Partner Award.
2013:
• ATNS launches the Aeronautical Management Development Programme (AMDP) in conjunction with the University of the Witwatersrand Business School. ATA is awarded IATA Worldwide Top Regional Training Partner.
2014:
• ATNS and its ASIOACG partners receive the Best Service Provider Award at Jane's annual ATC Awards Ceremony. ATA is awarded IATA Worldwide Top Regional Training Partner.
2015:
• ATNS Aviation Training Academy receives the IATA Worldwide Top Regional Training Partner Award for a fifth consecutive year. The Academy becomes an ICAO Regional Training Centre of Excellence. Aireon and ATNS sign a Regional Commercialization Agreement for space- based ADS-B data in Southern Africa.
2016:
• The ATNS Aviation Training Academy is designated as an IATA Premier Circle member.
2017:
• ATNS hosts the 7th IFATSEA Africa Region meeting and ATSEP workshop. ATNS is certified as a Top Employer out of 200 companies from 33 African countries. ATNS and the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) sign a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on a national multi-static passive radar facility. Emerging Innovator Nthato Moagi speaks at ATNS Avi Afrique Innovation Summit. Moagi has been named as Mail and Guarding Top 200 Young South Africans. He designed
2018:
• a Low-Cost Educational Robotics (LCERT) to assist learners and educators with affordable access to STEM Subject tuition.
• ATNS Winter School Programme attracts 100 matric learners from nine high schools in the Eastern Cape Province. The programme focuses on STEM subjects proficiency.
2019
• ATNS launches company-wide e-library service. It library is named Ulwazi i-centre and gives staff access to e-books in all national libraries.
2020
• ATNS ATA offers the first Virtual Training ATSEP (to Namibia)
2021
• ATNS and ARMSCOR sign MoU (ARMSCOR to assist ATNS with evaluating and configuring projects/programmes, Contract Management in CNS and IT
• Search and Rescue Mission Coordinators complete ICAO 057 SMC Course
• ATNS and SANSA sign MoU (to strengthen the dynamic management of Air Traffic and Airspace Management.
2022
• ATNS joins the global aviation community to celebrate 100 years of ATC
• ATS resumes at Richards Bay Airport. ATNS is the preferred ATS provider
• ATNS appoints new CEO. Second woman CEO in ATNS’s history and 3rd in Department of Transport SOC
• ATNS ATA SM: Training Delivery elected IFATSEA Africa Regional Director during the 50th IFATSEA General Assembly held in Prague, Czech Republic. Orefile Mthombeni elected Secretary of the newly-formed IFATSEA’s new Womens’ Committee
• ATNS donates to KZN Flood Relief programme, primarily for the upliftment of communities in distress
• ATNS part of a SA Government collective, led by Dept of Transport Minister, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga to the 41st ICAO Assembly, to lobby for SA’s re-election at into the ICAO Council
2023
• ATNS CEO elected to ICAO AFI Region as Deputy Chair at the AFI 3 meeting held in Geneva, Switzerland
• ATNS shares career guidance to Children Living with Disabilities
• ATNS partners with an SMME, Ntsu Aviation Solutions, to offer RPAS training
• 22 unemployed youth from NW; EC; MP and KZN start with RPSA training
Beyond the statistics and achievements, the Air Traffic Navigation Service has countless success stories that touch the lives of ordinary people daily. From reuniting loved ones on long- awaited journeys to enabling critical medical evacuations and facilitating economic growth through seamless trade and travel, the impact of this service is immeasurable.
These 30 years milestones highlight ATNS's progress, achievements, and contributions to the aviation and air traffic management industry in Africa.
Throughout its journey, this service has encountered its fair share of challenges. But with every obstacle, it has emerged stronger and more resilient. The commitment of its staff, the use of advanced technologies, and a relentless pursuit of excellence have all played a crucial role in overcoming these hurdles.
One of the core values that has driven the Air Traffic Navigation Service is safety. Above all else, safety remains the paramount priority. Countless lives have been entrusted to the capable hands of air traffic controllers and aviation experts, and their unwavering dedication to safety has ensured that millions of passengers reach their destinations securely.
In addition to safety, this service has demonstrated unparalleled professionalism and efficiency. The seamless coordination between air traffic controllers and pilots, the meticulous planning of flight routes, and the optimization of airspace usage have all contributed to a more streamlined and sustainable aviation sector.
As we look ahead to the future, let us envision an even more promising horizon for the Air Traffic Navigation Service in South Africa. Embracing innovation, adopting cutting-edge technologies, and nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals will be vital in steering this service toward continued success.
The impeccable contribution of the ATNS in the aviation air traffic management space globally
Esteemed guests;
Over the past 30 years, ATNS has been at the forefront of implementing safety initiatives within the global air transport industry, playing a pivotal role in making air travel safer, more efficient, and more reliable. Today, we proudly celebrate how ATNS has become a strategic link connecting our nation to the rest of the world, acting as a major catalyst for socio-economic development.
Safety is the cornerstone of aviation, and ATNS has spared no effort in upholding the highest standards of safety for all flights within our airspace. Through continuous training, advanced technology adoption, and rigorous oversight, ATNS has ensured that our skies remain one of the safest in the world. The dedication of air traffic controllers, working in unison with pilots and aviation professionals, has been instrumental in maintaining an impeccable safety record, instilling confidence in passengers and stakeholders alike.
As a trusted partner within the global air transport industry, ATNS has been an active participant in various international safety initiatives. Collaborating with international aviation bodies, regulatory authorities, and fellow air navigation service providers, ATNS has contributed to the development and implementation of cutting-edge safety protocols and best practices. By actively sharing knowledge and experiences, ATNS has not only elevated its own capabilities but also contributed to the collective safety of the global aviation community.
Beyond safety, ATNS has played a transformative role in bolstering the significance of air transport as a vital and essential
global service. Aviation is more than just a means of travel; it is a lifeline connecting people, cultures, and economies. As South Africa's airspace gateway, ATNS has facilitated seamless connections to the rest of the world, fostering international trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The efficient management of our airspace has significantly reduced flight delays and congestion, making air travel more attractive and reliable for passengers and businesses alike.
A well-functioning aviation sector creates numerous direct and indirect job opportunities, stimulating economic growth and prosperity. By improving connectivity to remote regions and encouraging investment, ATNS has contributed to regional development, empowering communities and improving their quality of life.
Absolutely! Air transport serves as a powerful catalyst for economic growth and development, and the role of the Air Traffic Navigation Service (ATNS) in South Africa has been instrumental in enabling and enhancing this growth over the past 30 years. ATNS has played a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and safe air travel, allowing businesses to access global markets, expand their operations, and drive economic growth in the aviation industry and other auxiliary sectors, such as tourism, hospitality, and various services, further contributing to economic prosperity.
The ATNS training academy
Programme Director,
Our Aviation Training Academy is a premier provider of Air Traffic Services, and indeed Aviation training – not only in South Africa
but on a Continental scale. Being an ICAO Regional Training Center of Excellence, our training products are world-class, stretching beyond just ATC training, but many other disciplines across the Aviation value chain. In fact, we have trained aviation personnel from around 32 African countries over the years.
African airspace is that much safer, due to the contributions of our Academy. The specialist nature of ATC training, and the current gap within the academic space, in providing training for aspiring ATCs, means that we are the primary providers of such training in the country. Consequently, ATNS serves as the primary employer of Air Traffic Controllers. As a consequence, the model, by design is entirely attractive to aspiring ATCs. We are addressing that by moving the ATC training model into the academic space, through appropriate registration with the Department of Higher Education and Training and accreditation with the Council on Higher Education.
ATNS, SAATM and the African continent
Moreover, the presence of efficient air transportation creates market opportunities for local entrepreneurs. As businesses gain access to regional and global economic centres, they can tap into new markets and forge international partnerships. This stimulates innovation, competitiveness, and entrepreneurship, propelling economic centers to thrive and encouraging investment in various industries.
The growth of air transport also enhances regional development by connecting remote areas to economic hubs and facilitating investment in previously underserved regions. Improved connectivity encourages tourism, boosts local economies, and empowers communities by providing access to educational and healthcare services, thereby improving their overall quality of life.
ATNS's commitment to safety and efficiency has helped foster trust and confidence in air travel, attracting more passengers and businesses to utilize air transportation. By providing seamless air navigation services, ATNS has contributed to reducing flight delays and increasing the reliability of air travel, making it a preferred choice for both leisure and business travelers.
As we gather here today to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Air Traffic Navigation Service (ATNS) in South Africa, we must also recognize the pivotal role of aviation in shaping Africa's future and its place on the global stage. The African Union's visionary initiative, the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), stands as a testament to our commitment to prioritizing the development of aviation within our continent and forging meaningful partnerships to overcome the challenges we face.
SAATM, identified as one of the key Agenda 2063 flagship projects, seeks to create a single air transport market in Africa through liberalizing intra-African air transport services. By granting eligible airlines market access and traffic rights for scheduled and freight air services, SAATM aims to improve air services connectivity and air carrier efficiencies across the continent.
This collaborative effort in establishing a Single Air Transport Market in Africa is essential, as it addresses the impediments we face, such as the lack of aviation experts and skills, high airport taxes and fees, weak connectivity, and restrictions on transit visas and facilities. By working together, we can surmount these
obstacles and unlock the potential of aviation to drive economic growth, regional integration, and prosperity for Africa.
Lack of aviation experts and skills, high airport taxes and fees, the weak connectivity and restrictions on transit visas and facilities add to the menu of impediments that we can only address by working together.
Air travel is essential to the prosperity of Africa as it opens up opportunities that did not exist before. Giving impetus to the growth and development of the African aviation industry is one of the most important drivers of regional integration on the continent.
Better connected African countries and regions through a viable air transport industry can be the catalyst to boost intra-African business, trade, tourism as well as cultural exchange. Developing the aviation industry also represents an invaluable opportunity to mitigate chronic transport problems faced by the sixteen (16) landlocked African countries.
The ATNS is a technology-driven entity, therefore by design, technical competencies remain the backbone of ensuring that we provide service excellence, we become sustainable and innovative.
We are pleased that the ATNS participates and leads some of these initiatives in the Africa and Indian Ocean Islands (AFI) Region such as the CANSO Mombasa ATFM Roadmap and SWIM Implementation for the AFI Region, through the provision of specialized skills as well as supporting infrastructure.
ATNS is designated as the sole provider of Air Traffic Services in South Africa. As such, its operations cover all airports in South Africa.
Communication forms the cornerstone of our service, and we maintain a firm view that ATNS plays a key role in ensuring adequate communication with the drones, either through the deployment of infrastructure or personnel.
It is important to recognise that the ATNS commenced with the space-based Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) service operational trials in 2022, with the objective to evaluate the deployment viability of the technology to support the current surveillance environment within our area of responsibility.
The operational trial performance analysis outcome validated that our space-based ADS-B system associated ADS-B data performances as well as all the components within the broader air traffic management system met operational requirements, surveillance coverage, and redundancy performance standards. The processes to deploy the system operationally are currently unfolding and will open additional surveillance capabilities for ATNS.
The main benefit of the system to ATNS is the fact that its performance is not confined to terrestrial restraints and conditions. The company operates a large area of oceanic airspace, and this technology will enhance ATNS’s surveillance coverage in the oceanic airspace.
As we celebrate 30 years of ATNS's dedication to air navigation service in South Africa, we also celebrate the positive impact it has had on our nation's economic growth and development. Let us recognize the profound contributions of all those involved in ATNS, as well as the aviation industry as a whole, in promoting economic prosperity and making our skies safer and more connected than ever before. Together, we look forward to a future of continued growth and progress, as air transportation remains a driving force behind South Africa's economic success.
Conclusion
As I conclude, I must say that the journey and legacy of the Air Traffic Navigation Service in South Africa over the past 30 years is one of dedication, commitment to safety, innovation, service excellence, and progress. As we celebrate this milestone, we must also embrace the future with determination and collaboration, as we forge ahead towards a more interconnected, prosperous, and innovative aviation industry for Africa.
Congratulations, ATNS, on 30 years of exceptional service to the aviation community. Here's to here's to an even brighter and safer future for our skies. It’s time to soar to new heights!
I thank you.
