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After spending almost R60 million on refurbishing the Mkhuze Airport - a lack of firefighting equipment and trained personnel has put a halt to plans for major regional airlines to fly into the tourism hub.

Similarly, Margate, with only an antiquated 1984 Ford fire engine available, faces losing its current regional airline, due to its inability to protect passengers and aircraft.

A lack of firefighting vehicles has hamstrung KZN's efforts in landing major local airline operators in both the Mkhuze and Margate regional airports - further hampering the already beleaguered economy.

Built and renovated in a joint effort between the Department of Transport and Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) - Mkhuze Airport has been a positive beacon of hope designed to lure both international and domestic tourists to the nearby game farms, Ezemvelo Parks and Jozini region. Government is now however seemingly unable to secure funds to equip the facility with compliant firefighting staff and equipment, while airlines are unable to bring desperately needed tourists to the airport. Initial estimates indicate that approximately R15 million is required for new equipment at both airports respectively, while the operating expenditure remains unqualified at Mkhuze.

The Provincial Government must urgently intervene and formulate multi-governmental interventions to provide and rehabilitate these essential firefighting services. Both Margate and Mkhuze remain a pivotal cog in bolstering tourism and the economy through aviation.

It is inconceivable that major infrastructure builds and renovations have now been completed - only to have them inaccessible to major airlines.

While the DA commends the strong stance taken by the EDTEA portfolio committee in bridging the impasse, the issue will be strongly driven by us until funding for these critical airports is found.

Issued by Heinz De Boer MPL - DA KZN Spokesperson on Economic Development and Tourism