Path Forward for Plettenberg Bay Airport Takes Shape
Path Forward for Plettenberg Bay Airport Takes Shape Following Bitou Stakeholder Session
The future of Plettenberg Bay Airport is beginning to take clearer shape following a pivotal stakeholder engagement hosted by Bitou Municipality on Friday, 16 May 2025. Held at the Bitou Council Chambers after a morning site inspection, the session drew wide participation from the public, sector stakeholders, and potential investors.
Bitou Municipality formally assumed management of the airport on 1 March 2025 after terminating its agreement with former operator rsa.AERO. The site visit brought attention to pressing infrastructure issues—particularly runway deficiencies—that have restricted the airport’s license to Category 2 under the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). This classification limits operations to general aviation, excluding larger scheduled commercial flights.
As a result, all commercial services, including those by carrier CemAir, remain suspended. CemAir has confirmed that flights will not resume before September 2025, with full restoration of scheduled commercial operations now projected only in the final quarter of 2026.
To bridge the gap and set the airport on a sustainable path, the municipality is preparing to launch a transparent, competitive tender process aimed at appointing a qualified service provider to manage and operate the facility. Officials emphasized that the process will strictly adhere to procurement regulations and aviation-sector policies.
Bitou leadership also stressed the importance of incorporating lessons from the past, aiming to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders and avoid conflicts that previously hampered the airport’s development. By fostering inclusive planning and responsible oversight, the municipality hopes to unlock the airport’s full economic potential—particularly in tourism, employment, and regional investment.
“This is a reset opportunity,” noted a municipal spokesperson. “We’re committed to a collaborative approach that delivers long-term benefit for residents and the local economy.”
For further information, stakeholders are encouraged to contact Mr. Andile Namntu, Manager of Corporate Communications and Customer Relations, at +27 (0)44 501 3006 or +27 (0)76 734 8483, or via email at anamntu@plett.gov.za.
Patty Butterworth, CEO of Plett Tourism, expressed optimism about the municipality’s approach:
“Direct air access is a key differentiator for any destination. It enhances Plett’s appeal as a premier tourist hub, and we welcome Bitou Municipality’s efforts to re-establish structured management of the airport. This move is vital to maintaining our competitive edge.”
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