Plett airport taking off into the future
PLETTENBERG BAY - The cost of revamping and re-developing Plett’s airport is still under wraps.
The first step in the process of the airport’s renewal will start with an initial on-boarding process which will be expedited and take three to five months to implement.
Airlink has already signalled a return to the airport, increasing competition to Cemair. Other smaller local carriers are also being eyed for Plett.
Airlink is expected to become the second airline, after Cemair, to return and operate from Plettenberg Bay Airport in the near future.
This has been confirmed by Deirdre Davids, a spokesperson of rsa.Aero, that was announced as the winning bidder for the tender put out by Bitou Municipality last week. rsa.Aero also runs the Cape Winelands Airport.
“Airlink has already signalled an interest in operating to the airport and we will engage with all of the smaller local carriers,” said Davids.
Tender
The long-awaited tender for the development of Plettenberg Bay Airport will see the airport fully revamped and upgraded with essential airport top structures, including a new passenger terminal, extended runway, expanded apron, and upgraded fire, rescue and emergency services to ICAO Cat 6 standards.
Davids said other infrastructure advancements include a new car park, service station and additional aircraft hangars. “The team has their work cut out for them now." She said rsa. Aero sees the airport as an extension of the region which it serves. "We want to create a community of aviators, stimulating the love of aviation. It is accessible not only to airport users, but to those wanting to visit the airport.
“Collaboration is important to us. Strong partnerships with Plett tourism as an example will be a priority.
“Teams from rsa.Aero will begin work on the infrastructure developments as soon as possible, being mindful that we will have to follow all required regulatory processes such as building plans and environmental impact assessments (if required). It is too early to signal possible costs, but we can share these once firm cost estimates are available,” said Davids.
rsa.Aero is committed to expediting the initial on-boarding process, which is expected to take three to five months to implement. “At that time we will assume responsibility for all elements of airport operations,” said Davids.
She said costs are directly linked to the detailed project scope.
“It is also too early to say what the benefits to the ratepayers will be, but we have identified the Plett Ratepayers as a key stakeholder and intend to adopt a collaborative approach so that we can create a solution that brings value to all.”