South Africa's Air Navigation Services ATNS has stopped instrument flight procedures at three airports after regulatory approvals expired.
Access to Bloemfontein Airport, as well as Richards Bay and Upington, is available with insufficient visibility until the restoration process is complete.
However, certain approach procedures for several major airports have been approved, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth.
Aviation navigation services were in crisis after approvals expired by South Africa's Civil Aviation Authority, due to a deadline for alternative compliance measures that expire in April.
Approximately 300 steps have been affected.
ATNS says it is “prioritizing” maintenance of “required” procedures at major airports to help support equipment approaches.
This effort is supported by a ministerial intervention team appointed by the South African Minister of Transport.
However, ATNS acknowledges that three prominent airports whose procedures have not been “still maintained” must suspend instrument operations from April 8th.
“These airports are only accessible in visual weather conditions and are not permitted when visibility is low,” he said.
“ATNS is committed to completing maintenance as soon as possible.”
South African airport operator ACSA supports the ATNS programme and notes that maintaining procedures has a “critical role” in ensuring safe, efficient and uninterrupted flight operations in harmful weather.
The status of South Africa's air navigation services has been subject to government scrutiny after the review board highlighted staffing and other issues along with a major failure in flight procedures.
ATNS claims it has made progress in addressing the issue, saying 10 air traffic controllers will join the organization over the coming months. “The recruitment process is still underway due to key skills,” it adds.
