In his 2026/27 budget vote on Wednesday (24/6), community safety and transport management MEC Wessels Morweng acknowledged attempts to bring the GD Montshioa and Pilanesberg airports back into operation had failed. The province initially attempted to secure private sector involvement

An attempted proposals process and a lease arrangement proposal both initiatives failed to attract a responsive partner. However, he added: “The process of revitalising airports is a departmental priority and is ongoing.

“In February, the provincial government signed a memorandum of understanding with Infrastructure South Africa to revitalise airports. The terms of reference have been developed for the redevelopment of Pilanesberg airport following the devastating fire in 2023.”

The facility has faced challenges ever since. At the time, a security guard reportedly noticed smoke at the facility but could not immediately determine its source. Further investigations revealed that the fire had started near the air traffic control tower.

Airport personnel rushed to contain the blaze, but the flames spread rapidly. Within moments, the roof of the airport terminal collapsed, leaving the facility severely damaged and requiring extensive reconstruction. 

The provincial government is now working with Infrastructure South Africa on a sustainable plan for the airport’s redevelopment, Morweng said. Similar efforts are underway at GD Montshioa Airport.

‘The airports’ troubled history extends beyond infrastructure challenges’

“Alongside sister department of public works and roads, (the) department is developing a business case for Infrastructure South Africa to ensure similar revival is done at the GD Montshioa Airport.”

The revival plans include extensive runway maintenance at both airports, while Pilanesberg Airport will require the construction of an entirely new terminal building. However, the airports’ troubled history extends beyond infrastructure challenges.

In March 2023, members of the North West Legislature conducted an oversight visit to GD Montshioa Airport in Mahikeng following allegations of irregularities involving a security company contracted to safeguard the facility.

The committee was alerted by service providers who claimed the contracted company, Best Both Security Services, had reduced the number of security guards deployed there while allegedly continuing to bill the department for the full complement of personnel.

Guards were allegedly redeployed elsewhere, including departmental offices in Mahikeng, despite the security contract being linked to the airport facility. Questions were also raised regarding the use of a vehicle assigned to the airport, which was allegedly being used to transport security personnel between the airport and departmental offices. 

The company was reportedly receiving more than R750,000 a month for 23 guards, while workers allegedly earned only about R5,000 monthly instead of R16,000 to R17,000.

Despite the setbacks, Morweng said government remained committed to restoring the airports and attracting investors capable of supporting the redevelopment programme. “Potential investors are being assessed and report thereof will be presented in due course.”

However, the MEC conceded the province’s biggest obstacle remains a lack of funding. “Challenge remains insufficient budget allocation to ensure that our airports are fully functional.”

Inadequate funding has had serious consequences for airport operations and compliance requirements, he added. This has resulted in maintenance plans being deferred, inability to procure essential equipment and non-implementation of key safety upgrades required for compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority standards.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.