After months of delays caused by the suspension of critical Instrument Flight Procedures, the Air Traffic and Navigation Services have confirmed that flights are now safer and more reliable to and from Richards Bay Airport. Hooray!
The Johannesburg–Richards Bay route, serviced by Airlink, is back on track, with fewer weather-related disruptions.
The airport isn’t just back online; it’s also undergoing major upgrades. New Airfield Ground Lighting and Precision Approach Path Indicator systems are being installed, improving safety for low-visibility and night-time operations.
Richards Bay Airport set to grow wings
Looking ahead, the City of uMhlathuze has ambitious plans to relocate and redevelop the airport into a new greenfield facility near the N2.
The R1.8-billion project is designed to unlock economic potential, increase tourism, streamline trade, and improve regional connectivity.
The draft feasibility study is nearing completion, with public input and council approval the next steps before the procurement phase begins.
This development is fully aligned with the National Development Plan, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone’s 50-year roadmap, and the Port of Richards Bay’s expansion plans.
For travellers, this means easier access to Zululand’s stunning beaches, wildlife, and cultural hotspots.
Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, the upgrades and future airport plans will make reaching this vibrant region
faster and more convenient than ever.
Explore the Richards Bay area
- Big 5 Game Reserves, including the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi
- St Lucia for hippo, crocodile, and turtle spotting adventures
- Sodwana Bay for world-class scuba diving and snorkelling
- Kosi Bay to explore pristine coastal wetlands
- Dlinza Forest in eShowe with an aerial boardwalk that provides a unique bird's-eye view of the forest canopy
- Rorke’s Drift and Isandlawana for historic battlefields tours
- KwaMbonambi & Mkhuze Cultural Villages for authentic Zulu experiences
With flights back on schedule and a bright future ahead, Richards Bay is once again your gateway to exploring the best of Zululand.
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