Flights between Richards Bay and Johannesburg have been suspended until further notice.

This was confirmed by Airlink, the privately-owned airline that operates the route, saying the decision follows the downgrading of Richards Bay Airport.

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) downgraded the airport’s fire and rescue service capability, disqualifying it from accommodating commercial airline operations.

“The safety and well-being of our customers, crews and equipment is paramount for Airlink and we scrupulously follow the SACAA’s safety regulations.

“However, Richards Bay is an economically important route and we intend to resume services on the route as soon as the SACAA lifts the restriction on the airport,” says Airlink MD and CEO Rodger Foster.

The airline adds holders of tickets for flights between Johannesburg and Richards Bay should contact Airlink’s Customer Service office on 011 4517550, or their travel agent, to be rebooked for travel at a later date, or to another destination (eg Durban), or to request a refund.