Transport Minister Barbara Creecy
By Thobeka Makume
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has approved urgent reforms for Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) following an expert report that identified staff shortages and outdated systems as key issues affecting the nation’s air traffic management. The report, commissioned to investigate last year’s flight delays, found that ATNS relies on unreliable communication and navigation systems, necessitating immediate intervention.
Expert Committee Findings
In response to increasing concerns over flight delays and air traffic inefficiencies, Minister Creecy established a committee of experts in December 2024 to conduct a thorough investigation into ATNS operations. The committee’s mandate included assessing flight instrument procedures and the root causes of delays at various airports across the country. 
The committee’s findings were concerning, revealing that ATNS is grappling with significant staff shortages, particularly among air traffic controllers, and is operating with outdated communication, navigation, and surveillance systems. These deficiencies have compromised the efficiency and safety of South Africa’s airspace management.
Immediate Reforms and Upgrades
Following the report, Minister Creecy has mandated the ATNS board and management to implement the committee’s recommendations without delay. Key actions include:
• Recruitment of Air Traffic Controllers: Addressing the critical shortage by expediting the hiring process to ensure adequate staffing levels.
• System Upgrades: Overhauling outdated communication, navigation, and surveillance systems to enhance reliability and safety.
• Management Improvements: Implementing strategies to strengthen organizational management and operational oversight.
Collen Msibi, spokesperson for the Department of Transport, emphasized the urgency of these reforms:
“The minister has emphasized that these recommendations will be implemented immediately by the ATNS board and management. She also emphasized that her office will monitor progress closely.”Minister Creecy expressed confidence that these actions will restore and enhance the safety and efficiency of South Africa’s airspace operations.
Background and Context
ATNS is responsible for air traffic management across approximately 10% of the world’s airspace, including all South African airspace and significant portions over the Southern Indian and Atlantic Oceans. The organization provides services to both the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and various regional airports. 
In recent years, ATNS has faced challenges related to aging infrastructure and technological obsolescence. A report by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) highlighted that the need to upgrade aging systems points to poor management and a failure to account for necessary technological advancements. 
To address these issues, ATNS has been working on modernizing its systems. In September 2024, the organization introduced a five-point instrument flight procedure plan, approved by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), aimed at improving airport safety and operational efficiency. 
Industry and Public Response
The aviation industry and the public have welcomed the minister’s decisive action. Aviation analyst Guy Leitch noted that the reforms are a positive step toward restoring confidence in South Africa’s air traffic management system. He emphasized the importance of timely implementation and continuous monitoring to ensure sustained improvements.
Passengers have expressed relief at the prospect of reduced flight delays and enhanced safety measures. Frequent flyer Thandiwe Mokoena shared her concerns:
“As someone who travels often for work, the recent flight delays have been frustrating. It’s reassuring to know that steps are being taken to address the root causes.”
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