Two Deaths Reported at OR Tambo and King Shaka Airports, Investigations Underway

Tragedy struck at two of South Africa’s major airports, OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) in Johannesburg and King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) in KwaZulu-Natal, with the deaths of two individuals in separate incidents. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirmed the fatalities late on Saturday evening, and both incidents are currently under investigation.

Incident at OR Tambo International Airport

At OR Tambo International Airport, a traveller fell from parking level 5 to the ground level at approximately 15:10. Law enforcement and health officials stationed at the airport’s 24-hour clinic were alerted immediately, but despite efforts by paramedics, the individual was declared dead on the scene.

The identity of the deceased remains unknown at this time, and ACSA spokesperson Ernest Mulibana confirmed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened an inquest docket for further investigation.

Incident at King Shaka International Airport

Meanwhile, at King Shaka International Airport, a male passenger collapsed in the domestic arrivals terminal. Emergency services responded swiftly, but unfortunately, the man was declared dead on the scene. His identity and the cause of death are also yet to be determined.

Mulibana stated that investigations are ongoing for both cases, with SAPS taking the lead in determining the causes of death. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of both travellers during this difficult time,” he said.

Flight Operations Resume at King Phalo Airport

In other airport-related news, flight operations have resumed at King Phalo Airport in East London after severe weather conditions and navigation system problems caused flight disruptions. Six flights were cancelled, and two others were delayed earlier in the week due to a suspension of certain Instrument Flight Procedures.

Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose confirmed that conditions had improved, allowing flights to resume. “Our colleagues at ATNS [Air Traffic Navigation Services] are working around the clock to resolve the navigation systems challenges,” Binqose added.

Broader Impact of Navigation System Suspensions

The disruptions at King Phalo Airport are part of a larger issue involving suspended instrument-navigation flight approaches at several airports, including George, Kimberley, Polokwane, Mthatha, and Richards Bay. The indefinite suspension has impacted flights across the country.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has directed ATNS to resolve the suspension of navigation procedures within two weeks to minimize further disruptions.

These incidents highlight both the tragic loss of life at two of the country’s major airports and the ongoing challenges facing South Africa’s aviation sector due to operational difficulties, including safety concerns, infrastructure limitations, and weather-related disruptions. As investigations into the deaths continue, it remains to be seen what measures will be implemented to improve airport safety and reliability.