The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has revoked the working licence of Vereeniging Airport, citing non-compliance with security and infrastructure requirements.
The choice has sparked concern amongst political events, who warn it may deal an extra blow to the already struggling economic system of the Vaal area.
Security failures and infrastructure decline at Vereeniging Airport
The airport, owned and managed by the Sedibeng District Municipality, failed to satisfy regulatory necessities throughout inspections, officers mentioned.
Airport licences should be renewed yearly and are topic to strict audits. Failure to conform can lead to penalties or closure.
In line with the Freedom Entrance Plus (VF Plus), essentially the most crucial difficulty was the situation of the airport’s perimeter fencing, which has deteriorated to the purpose the place it now not secures the power.
The occasion added that the compromised fencing has allowed uncontrolled entry to the premises, elevating issues about security and safety round key infrastructure, together with the gasoline storage space.
“Clear indicators of decay”
Past fencing points, the VF Plus described broader deterioration on the website.
It mentioned runway strategy lights had been stolen, making evening operations unimaginable, whereas animals have been reportedly roaming freely on the airfield. The occasion additionally pointed to sewage leaks between buildings as proof of neglect.
Regardless of an authorized upkeep tender of R180 000 in July 2025, the occasion mentioned no seen repairs or upgrades have been noticed throughout a current oversight go to.
There are additionally issues about the way forward for an aviation faculty working on the airport, which may relocate if situations don’t enhance.
Political fallout
The Democratic Alliance (DA) echoed the issues, blaming what it described as mismanagement and poor oversight by the municipality.
“The South African Civil Aviation Authority has determined to cancel the licence of the airport because of neglect and security dangers as a result of misallocation of funds,” the occasion mentioned.
The DA added that it had beforehand warned in regards to the dangers of permitting the airport to fall into disrepair, however that these warnings weren’t acted upon.
The occasion has known as for accountability from municipal management, questioning how funds have been allotted with out corresponding upkeep work being carried out.
