This will provide much-needed infrastructure to unlock the latent demand for air services in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In July 2024, Garden Route Aero (GRA), a subsidiary of RSA.Aero, has started a handover process with the Bitou Municipality for the management of the Plettenberg Bay Airport. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The transition process includes numerous airport-related activities, including contractual reviews, operational planning, and civil infrastructure audits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the main issues is the state of the runway. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has raised observations of structural deterioration in the runway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pavement specialists must conduct a detailed assessment of the pavement infrastructure and confirm what remedial work is required on the runway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although much work is needed to upgrade the airport, Bitou municipal manager Mbulelo Memani said the partnership will greatly benefit the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Plettenberg Bay is one of the most sought-after towns among rich South Africans, and better air travel to the region will significantly enhance its appeal and economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, scheduled services to Plettenberg Bay have been provided intermittently, constraining growth over the years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The airport currently processes approximately 30,000 passengers per year. It is expected to increase to 150,000 passengers by 2050 if the airport is upgraded to industry standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nick Ferguson, managing director of RSA.aero, said an improved airport would serve a large portion of the Garden Route market in Plettenberg Bay and Knysna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n He said safety, efficiency, and predictability are key to successful airport operations. This will be their immediate priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe take our responsibility very seriously and will collaborate with all key stakeholders. Our goal is to co-create, partner, and ensure the airport’s success,\u201d said Ferguson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Bitou municipality said its partnership with RSA.Aero is poised to bring about transformative changes and propel the tourism sector in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe Plettenberg Bay Airport plays a crucial role in our marketing efforts at Plett Tourism. We sell direct access to our domestic and international travellers regularly,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/2-Plett-Airport-signing-.jpg\")
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