Transport Minister Barbara Cresie confirmed that critical skills shortages, equipment failures and outdated procedures at Air Transport National Services (ATNS) have contributed to large-scale flight delays and cancellations, and interventions are needed to prevent catastrophic failures in aviation safety.
A crisis is unfolding in the South African sky – planes are grounded, flight delays increase, and safety warnings from airlines and industry experts continue to increase.
At a press conference this Monday, Transport Minister Barbara Cresie acknowledged the challenges he commissioned late last year and the results of the terrible expert report, advised that an emergency plan of action is in motion to resolve the crisis over the coming months.
“The results of repeated audits and inspections were not addressed in a timely manner… There is a process of implementing corrective actions on all risky findings that were completed by the end of February, and we will be attending mid-risk events by the end of March.”
However, due to the deep entrenched challenges in the services of air transport countries, these goals are not possible, and they cannot add risk to domestic flights and put sanctions by the International Civil Aviation Organization at risk.
The Anatomy of Failure – How the System collapses
Air Transport Services, a government agency of the Ministry of Transport, is responsible for managing the air traffic system and personnel in South Africa.
