VIRGINIA Aiport operators, would be willing to move to King Shaka Airport or Dube Tradeport if the city assisted with relocation and set-up costs and the construction of a second runway. That’s the word from Daryl Mann, owner of Aero Natal, and spokesman on behalf of the airport’s operators. This comes after further speculation surrounding the future of 55 year old aiport.

If reports are to be believed eThekwini city manager Sbu Sithole allegedly said last week Virginia would have to move in order to accommodate upmarket resorts and residential accommodation.

His words however, have angered Mann, who said Sithole could not make any decisions without first consulting operators.

“We’ve never said we won’t move, we’ve said show us a suitable alternative. The only move which could meet the criteria is to King Shaka. However that would need a second runway and the city would need to contribute to the relocation costs. We are not asking for anything unreasonable. The proposed Scottburgh move is nonsensical.

“The city needs a general aviation airport which serves as a main artery to the CBD. But the uncertainty is still hurting business which is why there is no investing in the airport. We are one of the busiest airports in the province, apart from King Shaka but we are receiving no funding for any upgrades. The KZN treasury has allocated sums to other smaller airports around the province but not us, because of the lease uncertainty,” he said.

Durban North councillor Shaun Ryley said he is in the dark as to the future of the airport.

“The matter is yet to be discussed at council or the city’s executive committee (exco). Moving Virginia would be to the detriment of the city. The aiport is running at a loss because the city has failed to do anything about its future. It doesn’t make sense,” Ryley said.

It’s believed the future of the aiport will be finalised in December at a council meeting.

Attempts to get any comment from Sbu Sithole were unsuccessful.