The Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport, Mr Lisa Mangcu, has welcomed reassurance that the technical glitch that resulted in inadequate fuel at OR Tambo International has been resolved.

Mr Mangcu said in situations like this it is important that Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) should adopt an effective communication approach that calms and assures clients. “A technical glitch needs not result in frustrating clients; all it required was honest communication. These situations have a potential to cause unnecessary panic and uncertainty. ACSA needs to guard against that.”

A technical glitch resulted in flights being delayed at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday.  Mr Mangcu wished those who were returning to their workplaces some from their traditional homes in different provinces to be very cautious on the roads.

“Interprovincial travels should be enjoyable and about fun, and need not result in further loss of life. The committee remains concerned, and hopeful that fatalities will be minimal,” added Mr Mangcu.

Mr Mangcu said the committee wishes to extend its heartfelt condolences to families and friends of those who passed away as a result of accidents that have taken place since the beginning of the festive season. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.