HOEDSPRUIT – After a temporary halt caused by severe floods earlier this year, FlySafair and Airlink have resumed flight operations at Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit.

The suspension was necessary to allow for repairs and maintenance to the airport’s runways, which were damaged during the heavy rains. The resumption of flights marks a key milestone in restoring accessibility to one of Limpopo’s most important tourism gateways.

Maruleng Local Municipality Mayor Musolwa hailed the resumption as a “significant boost” for the region’s tourism sector, emphasising that Hoedspruit continues to grow as a key destination for both domestic and international travellers.

“The reopening of Eastgate Airport not only restores essential connectivity but also strengthens the appeal of Maruleng as a gateway to world-class wildlife reserves, lodges, and other attractions,” the mayor said.

Eastgate Airport, the busiest airport in Limpopo, plays a crucial role in supporting the province’s tourism and economic growth. With CemAir’s expanded flight services complementing FlySafair and Airlink operations, the region is expected to see improved accessibility, particularly for tourists travelling to the nearby Kruger National Park and private game reserves.

Tom Vorster of the Maruleng Tourism Association explained that the flight suspension, which lasted less than four weeks, was unavoidable due to runway damage.

“When it was discovered that the long runway had been compromised, larger aircraft could not safely operate. Flights were suspended and resumed on February 14. Since then, flight occupancy has returned to near-normal levels, although not quite at pre-flood volumes,” he said.

Vorster noted that the current geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have had a limited impact on international tourists.

Many visitors traditionally transit through hubs such as Dubai or Doha, and cancellations or disruptions in these connecting flights have affected some tourists’ ability to travel to South Africa.

“Direct flights from Europe, such as from Norway, remain unaffected. Overall, the impact on tourism is present but not significant,” he added.

Self-drive tourists, who make up a considerable portion of visitors, continue to face challenges due to the state of roads. Despite this, Vorster expressed optimism, stating that tourism in Hoedspruit is gradually returning to normal.

“While some infrastructure challenges remain, the sector is more resilient than anticipated, and the region is showing strong signs of recovery,” he said.