Festive flight rush ready, but weather may cause delays: ATNS warns travellers

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has issued a warning that while its systems are fully prepared for the upcoming festive travel rush, weather conditions could still trigger intermittent flight delays.

The agency confirmed its operational readiness, emphasising its strong focus on safety, service continuity, and network efficiency across South Africa's airspace, including at the country’s busiest hub, OR Tambo International Airport.

ATNS stated that upgraded navigation procedures are effectively helping to manage the heavy air traffic expected during this period, particularly at O.R. Tambo International Airport.

The organisation is coordinating daily with airports and airlines to balance the rising demand with available airspace capacity.

ATNS Spokesperson Mphilo Dlamini: "The Air Traffic and Navigation Services has confirmed its full operational readiness for the peak festive season, underscoring a strong focus on safety, service continuity, and network efficiency across South Africa’s airspace, including at the country’s busiest hub, O.R. Tambo International Airport."

Travellers are advised to expect possible delays at peak times, as safety-driven flow controls remain the top priority for ATNS.