On the Horizon for Plett a Major Airport Upgrade is Underway

Plettenberg Bay Airport Set for Transformational Upgrade

Plettenberg Bay Airport, an essential hub along South Africa’s Garden Route, has faced significant setbacks in 2024 due to safety concerns. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) suspended the airport’s license in July 2024, primarily due to the condition of the runway, halting all flight landings. In response, the Bitou Municipality has taken decisive action to address these issues.

In a Special Council Meeting on August 30, 2024, the Bitou Council approved a R5 million budget to address the safety concerns raised by SACAA. This funding will be directed towards essential maintenance work on the runway, ensuring the airport complies with safety regulations. However, while general aviation activities are expected to resume soon after Garden Route AERO, the new airport operator, secures a Category 2 airport license, larger commercial flights, such as those operated by CemAir, will remain grounded until further upgrades are completed. These repairs are expected to take some time, as restoring the runway to full safety compliance is a priority.

This update comes amid the conclusion of all contractual matters between the Bitou Municipality and Garden Route AERO. With the operator taking over the airport’s management, plans are underway to restore flight services gradually, though earlier reports of runway extensions for larger aircraft like the Boeing 737 have been dispelled. Current efforts focus on bringing the airport back online for general aviation while more extensive upgrades continue.

CemAir, a key airline operating in Plettenberg Bay, has temporarily suspended all flights due to the airport’s infrastructure issues. They will not resume commercial operations until the necessary repairs and safety upgrades are completed. For now, the timeline for the return of larger commercial flights remains uncertain, though local officials are committed to addressing the runway concerns without delay.

Despite the challenges, both the Bitou Municipality and Garden Route AERO are optimistic about the airport’s future. They aim to restore operations safely and efficiently, securing Plettenberg Bay’s position as a premier travel destination once again.

This revised strategy places an emphasis on safety and operational readiness, while also dispelling previous claims of ambitious runway extensions to accommodate larger jets. Plettenberg Bay’s allure as a tourist destination remains intact, and with these focused efforts, its airport is set to resume operations, albeit in phases​.

Article amended based on new information, please also go here for the Media Release from Bitou Municipality

Source: CapeTown ETC | Plett News