MyPE

Community Business Directory, Event Listings, News and Views from Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay

Airport closures threaten Buffalo City and Eastern Cape tourism and economy

By

Dear Editor

The DA in the Eastern Cape expresses concern over the repeated shutdown of King Phalo Airport in East London, with operations grinding to a halt for the second time in weeks. Today, no flights were allowed to land or take off, causing significant delays and congestion.

The crisis stems from Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) operational failures, including outdated regulatory procedures failing to meet international standards, aging infrastructure and a shortage of trained and experienced staff.

As a key tourist destination and gateway to the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast, Buffalo City’s economy relies heavily on airport operations. If tourists cannot fly into King Phalo Airport, it may lead to a substantial decline in tourism, severely impacting the local economy.

To address this, I will write to DA National Spokesperson of Transport, Chris Hunsinger MP, requesting he raise the issue with Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, seeking a swift solution.

King Phalo Airport is a vital domestic travel hub, and disruptions to its limited flight schedule threaten its viability and the livelihoods of airport employees.

The DA will fight to ensure that all tourism infrastructure, including the King Phalo Airport, is prioritised, so that we can unlock the full potential of the tourism sector in the Eastern Cape and bring lasting economic benefits to our communities.

Regards

Leander Kruger MPL
Buffalo City Constituency Leader

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Port Elizabethan

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