New rules for 2010 Airline Operations

IF you live in Cape Town start learning Portuguese and Spanish because you’re likely to see an influx of South American soccer fans during the 2010 World Cup.

The Department of Transport has concluded deals with foreign airlines directing them to specific airports in the country so as to avoid overcrowding at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (Ortia).

The following entry points have been identified for airlines:

* Ortia for all airlines flying from Europe, the Middle East and the rest of Africa. *Cape Town International Airport for all airlines flying from the Americas.
* Durban International Airport and the new King Shaka International Airport at La Mercy for airlines flying from Asia/Pacific and Australasia.

DoT believes this strategy will stimulate different markets, ease congestion at Ortia and create a “Golden Triangle” platform for beyond 2010.

It says Gauteng’s secondary and support airports such as Lanseria, Grand Central and Rand Airport will provide relief for Ortia on private, business jet and general aviation. Smaller airports such as Lanseria, Polokwane and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport will also be used for inter-continental and regional operations, but customs and immigration services there may need upgrading.

To limit congestion, airlines will be allowed to drop off passengers at airports and then park elsewhere, like at air force bases, while operational hours will be extended to accommodate an expected increase of unscheduled traffic.

The DoT also believes current domestic seat capacity will be sufficient for the event as 70% of the existing domestic market is expected to be displaced at the time.