Thabani Mthiyane speaks out about delays and communication disruption at OR Tambo

The situation at OR Tambo International Airport has been restored to normal operation, but Mthiyane discussed the cause and implications of the communication failure that led to delays.

“The communication failure experienced was precipitated by an off-peak period reconfiguration of the control centre technical layout, meant to accommodate the installation and commissioning of new equipment. This regrettably, resulted in a temporary communication intermission.”

Mthiyane reassured South African natives caught up in the situation that at no point was their safety compromised.

He met reports of industrial action by his staff, and said: “The regulation and control of air traffic is classified as an essential service and as a result the service delivery by ATNS continues.”

Mthiyane also discussed the Regional Safety Air Traffic Management (ATM) Safety Improvement Workshop held this week, and how the event helps in regards to delays and communication disruptions experienced at OR Tambo: “Through these focused dialogues with our stakeholders, we create an environment conducive to manage constraints, inefficiencies, and unforeseen events that affect system capacity. This minimizes negative impacts of any kind of disruptions.”