Acsa apologises for leaving passengers stranded during Cape Town International Airport power outage

Acsa’s Cape Town International Airport. Picture: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers

Acsa’s Cape Town International Airport. Picture: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers

Published Jul 29, 2024

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Airports Company South Africa says it is working to permanently repair and restore its network after a power outage at Cape Town International Airport on Sunday, July 28, 2024.

The outage resulted in runway lights, airside fire rescue and air traffic navigation services being affected. Flights were unable to land or depart at the airport.

As a result, flights at the airport were delayed and those coming into the airport were diverted to other airports in the Acsa network.

Airlines that were affected include FlySafair, LIFT, United Airline and Delta Airlines.

— Airports Company SA (@Airports_ZA) July 29, 2024

On Monday, July 29, Acsa reported that that runway lights and navigational aids were returned to service after 1am, allowing for safe aircraft landings.

“Acsa technicians and specialists are continuing with permanent repairs and restoration of the network. However, we are waiting for a clear window of opportunity to execute the required work,” said Acsa.

On X, Thobile Ntaka (@uMaNtaka) said: “11 hrs later, we are still in Gqeberha. @FlySafair we will not forget how you offered the floor to pensioners and kids while @LiftAirlineSA arranged a bed for their stranded passengers.”

Another user, @10g_gal, said: “But this is not what the @FlySafair manager said 2 hours ago. He said the lights are still faulty and therefore they cant fly us home. Stuck at CPT international Airport, freezing to death, with 0 hope of taking off anytime soon. No sanitary towels, all shops closed.”

— FlyZulu (@zulu_fly) July 28, 2024

And @zulufly said: “You guys need to get your nonsense together...You are managing international airports with important traffic. you need to stop these shenanigans. Covid is over.”

Acsa and FlySair have apologised to travellers for the inconvenience caused.