Committee makes recommendations on ATNS at SA airports

A preliminary diagnostic report by a committee of aviation experts to look into challenges faced at Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) at airports, has made several recommendations.

The committee was established by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy following a host of disruptions to flights at George and other airports due to faulty communication, navigation and surveillance (CNS) systems.

The most recent being last month in George, where hundreds of passengers were affected after their flights were cancelled two days in a row.

In a statement, the department called the CNS system unreliable.

It suggested that the focus be on ensuring the reliability of critical systems, maintaining instrument flight procedures and improving staffing.

Minister Creecy emphasised that these recommendations be implemented immediately by the ATNS Board and management, with the advice of the committee.