A win for air travel in South Africa

 ·8 Nov 2022

Transport minister Fikile Mbalula says that South Africa’s aviation industry has recorded safety and security standards on par with international standards, which is cause for celebration.

Speaking at the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) on Tuesday (8 November), the minister said that the country is maintaining a Category 1 status in a safety index conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) – the highest safety rating possible.

While having safe flight standards is a reward in itself, the minister said that the status also boosts the wider tourism and business industries in the country.

“The implication for South African operators is that they can fly or operate directly into the United States unhindered. Simply put, a Category 1 status means that the two countries’ safety systems are on par.”

Mbalula added that the US had increased its traffic volumes to South Africa, and having unhindered travel is a boon for the economy.

In terms of safety standards since 2017, the airline industry has increased to 87.39%, surpassing the global average of 69% with ease. South Africa’s security score is also en route to achieving its milestone in March 2023, when the final audit is completed.

“I would like to caution aviators during the festive season to exercise diligence in ensuring safety in aviation operations. We have sustained an impressive safety record over the years because we understand the dangers of expediency at the expense of safety,” said the transport minister.

According to the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa), airports across the country are upping the ante ahead of the holiday season that sees many South African families taking to the sky for holidays and a vast influx of international tourists.

In mid-October, Acsa said that King Shaka International Airport in Durban and Cape Town International Airport, alongside OR Tambo, are pushing towards updating business practices and digitalising.

Security is also set to be a point of improvement, said Acsa.


Read: Things fall apart at Eskom

Show comments
Subscribe to our daily newsletter