According to AASA, the situation—now in its 16th month—has resulted in widespread flight disruptions, delays, diversions, and cancellations, with significant economic and operational consequences. “These are far more than a mere inconvenience; they are deeply damaging and simply unacceptable,” the association said.

AASA emphasised that the crisis poses a threat to the economic viability of several towns and cities, as well as to South Africa’s reputation as a reliable trading partner and tourism destination. It called for intervention from Cabinet ministers whose portfolios depend on reliable and safe air connectivity.

While AASA welcomed ATNS’s recent briefing on the status of suspended IFPs, staffing levels, and infrastructure upgrades, it noted that the presentation “raised more questions than answers.” The association pressed for greater transparency, clearer timeframes, and open communication to enable airlines and customers to plan operations with certainty.

Among the key questions raised by AASA were:

• Why ATNS has been unable to reinstate the majority of the 326 IFPs suspended in July 2024, along with additional procedures suspended in September and October 2025, despite successful reinstatement at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA).
• What measures are in place to prevent further expirations of IFPs in the next 12 months.
• Why pilots are being required to manually amend electronic flight procedures, introducing potential safety risks.
• How ATNS plans to recruit and deploy skilled personnel to fill critical positions.
• What form of recompense could be implemented for airlines incurring extra costs through no fault of their own.

Economic Impact

The suspension of IFPs means that take-offs and landings are restricted during periods of mist, fog, low cloud, or smoke, when visibility is reduced. This results in financial strain on airlines, loss of customer confidence, and escalating costs linked to passenger care, fuel, maintenance, diversions, and crew.

AASA warned that the impact extends beyond airlines to businesses, trade, emergency services, and livelihoods across South Africa — from cities such as Kimberley, George, Polokwane, and Upington to major hubs like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha.

The association called on ATNS and the Department of Transport to eliminate these disruptions and deliver on their mandate of safe, reliable, and efficient air transport to support economic growth and job creation.

Understanding IFPs

Instrument Flight Procedures are mandatory, electronically published charts that outline critical flight information, including altitudes, headings, and navigation instructions for aircraft departures, en-route navigation, landings, and holding patterns. Designed for each runway and navigation system, IFPs ensure aircraft operate safely in all weather conditions and airspace environments.

Aaron Munetsi, CEO of AASA, reiterated the need for urgent, transparent action:

“This is an operational crisis with national economic implications. We must have clear answers, firm timelines, and coordinated leadership to restore confidence in South Africa’s aviation system.”