Gauteng airports prepare for G20 Summit with final readiness checks
Minister Barbara Creecy says South Africa’s aviation network is ready for the G20 Leaders' Summit which takes place at the weekend.
Image: IOL
South Africa’s aviation network has passed its final operational tests ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, with Transport Minister Barbara Creecy confirming that the country’s ports of entry are “ready” ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
Creecy said preparations began a year ago when the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) was instructed to take charge of aviation planning for the event. “On 19 November 2024, the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) CEO was tasked to coordinate all G20 aviation matters,” she said, adding that the work involved Air Traffic and Navigation Services, SA Civil Aviation Authority, South African Airways, and national security structures to ensure “seamless integration and coordination of all our airports nationwide.”
Four facilities have been approved as primary points of entry for heads of state: OR Tambo International Airport, Lanseria International Airport, Waterkloof Air Force Base, and Fireblade Terminal. These form the core of the G20 Aviation Forum, which will manage high-level arrivals and departures.
A full operational rehearsal took place last month. According to Creecy, “the first dry run demonstrated the exceptional readiness of the Ports of Entry workstream” with operational centres now running continuous coordination supported by scheduled daily briefings.
She also addressed concerns following recent power outages that affected Gauteng. The minister confirmed that OR Tambo International Airport experienced interruptions that originated upstream within Eskom’s network, but operations were not disrupted.
She said the airport “immediately transitioned to its backup power systems, allowing critical terminal, airside, western precinct, and cargo activities [to continue] without compromise.”
Creecy added that the incidents prompted further strengthening of systems, stating that they have enhanced the airport's state of readiness.
At Waterkloof Air Force Base, assessments have confirmed that the military facility is prepared for state aircraft movements.
South African Airways, serving as the summit’s official carrier, has “ensured seamless air transport and full operational support for delegates,” with summit messaging integrated into its onboard platforms.
Regulatory oversight is also in place, with the Civil Aviation Authority stating it is “fully prepared to support the safe, secure, and efficient delivery of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.”
Creecy said the sector is ready to host the world’s leaders, emphasising that “all ports of entry and the broader aviation system stand fully prepared, equipped, and ready to support a safe, secure, and world-class hosting.”