Mbombela – Flight operations at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) have fully resumed following weeks of disruption that affected travel and tourism in the Lowveld region.
The Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism (KLCBT) confirmed the development on Monday, 27 October 2025, through its Special Attaché Oupa Pilane, who welcomed the reinstatement of normal flight schedules after the suspension of Instrument Flight Procedures (IFPs) by the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS).
The disruptions, which began in mid-October, were linked to a nationwide recertification exercise by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). This led to the suspension of IFPs at several airports, causing delays, cancellations and flight diversions.
Pilane said the situation severely affected Mpumalanga’s tourism industry, particularly during the busy travel period. He noted that despite the disruptions, KMIA’s infrastructure including its runway, lighting and instrument landing systems remained fully compliant with aviation standards.
He also expressed disappointment over what he described as silence from the Mpumalanga provincial government, stating that the private sector was once again left to shoulder the responsibility of resolving the crisis.
The SACAA has since granted exemptions allowing ATNS to reinstate the suspended flight procedures, enabling airlines such as Airlink and FlySafair to resume normal operations. Pilane extended appreciation to KMIA management for their commitment and communication efforts during the disruption.
He apologised to travellers affected by the situation and assured that the Lowveld remains open and accessible to visitors heading to major attractions such as the Kruger National Park.
Pilane urged aviation authorities to maintain proactive system checks to prevent similar disruptions in the future and encouraged travellers to visit www.kmiairport.co.za for updated flight information.
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