OR Tambo Delays Spark Passenger Anxiety

Air Traffic System Failure Disrupts Flights, Creates Uncertainty

Disruptions at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, caused by an air traffic control system failure, have left passengers feeling unsettled and forced to rework their travel plans.

Air Traffic Control Hit by System Glitch

The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) announced operational interruptions due to a critical system failure impacting flight plan management. This led to departure delays, affecting numerous travelers.

Barusch Sewduth, who experienced a nearly hour-long delay, expressed his frustration and uncertainty about future travel. His flight from Durban to Johannesburg was initially held up for 40 minutes, with an additional 20-minute delay before boarding.

“Once we got on board, the cabin crew announced that the delay was due to the movement of VIPs at OR Tambo, so that delayed the aircraft from Johannesburg to Durban.”

—Barusch Sewduth, Passenger

Sewduth highlighted the inconvenience of having to constantly update his family, who were meant to pick him up. Upon landing in Johannesburg, an additional 30-minute wait for baggage compounded the difficulties.

He urged airlines to be more proactive with communication. “None of that was given, they just said that the flight was delayed.”

Looking ahead, Sewduth shared his apprehension about his upcoming flight from Abu Dhabi. “I’m actually quite worried because I am in Abu Dhabi and I’m flying back tomorrow morning, so that’s also a stress at the back of my mind because I think I need to get to the airport much earlier than what I would normally do,” he stated, anticipating further disruptions.

ATNS Addresses System Failure

ATNS spokesperson Percy Morokane confirmed the system failure affecting air traffic control operations. “As a result, operational disruptions are occurring, and departure delays are expected,” he said, adding that ATNS was collaborating with stakeholders to mitigate the impact.

Morokane assured the public and aviation partners that stringent safety protocols remained in place. He also committed to keeping stakeholders informed. “ATNS apologises for any inconvenience caused and remains committed to providing all stakeholders with timely updates as the situation develops.”

The incident at OR Tambo follows a trend of travel disruptions globally. For instance, in the United States during the 2023 holiday season, over 10,000 flights were canceled or delayed due to severe weather and technical issues, impacting millions of travelers (NBC News, 2023).