IT was early morning. I was having coffee and waiting to catch a flight when I glanced out across the busy airport terminal. Around me, passengers bustled through security, announcements echoed through the concourse, and planes taxied on the runway. But as I watched the movement around me, I found myself wondering: Who are the people that keep this entire operation running — beyond the pilots, flight attendants, and security staff we always hear about?

That quiet moment over coffee opened my eyes to a hidden world. For every plane that takes off or lands, there are hundreds of people working behind the scenes — planners, engineers, wildlife specialists, and community connectors; each playing a critical role in the airport ecosystem.

At Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), these lesser-known roles are crucial, even if they don’t make the headlines.

Meet three of the individuals whose passion and purpose are helping redefine what it means to work at an airport.

Fikile Zungu
Assistant general manager: regional integration, client and passenger services

Zungu is the strategic link between ACSA’s Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal airports — King Shaka International, King Phalo, and Chief Dawid Stuurman — and the broader communities they serve. Her role goes beyond managing airport operations; she is focused on turning airports into engines of regional growth.

“We’re positioning airports not just as transit hubs, but as destinations with rich cultural and economic offerings. For example, we recently hosted a Wine and Art Festival at King Shaka International Airport giving local artists a platform to showcase their work.”

With 17 years in the aviation industry, Zungu thrives on collaboration, working closely with government, business, and community stakeholders to enable connections between people, businesses and places that energise socio-economic activity.

“It’s an exciting space to be in. There’s always something new to learn.”

Musawenkosi Gwala
Senior Wildlife Officer

Few travellers realise the critical role wildlife officers play in keeping flights safe. Gwala is tasked with protecting both nature and people — patrolling runways, managing animal hazards, and maintaining equipment that ensures the safe co-existence of aviation and the natural environment.

“I love being outdoors, surrounded by nature, knowing that I’m preserving life, both human and wildlife, in this unique space. Each day is a mystery. You never know what’s going to happen, but every moment is filled with discovery.”

From handling wildlife to working with specially trained dogs, Gwala’s job combines passion with purpose.

“People are often surprised when I tell them what I do. It’s a hidden role, but one that’s absolutely vital to airport operations.”

Purity Shandu
Energy and Demand Management Engineer

In an age of climate urgency, Shandu is helping ACSA chart a bold course toward energy sustainability. Her work involves developing and managing innovative projects like solar plants, gas-to-power facilities, and even hydrogen technology.

“I love being part of something that’s never been done before in the airport space. It’s about contributing to carbon neutrality and building a better future for our communities and adding value to the aviation sector.”

Driven by ethics and innovation, Shandu draws inspiration from the “Engineers’ Creed,” pledging service before profit and public welfare above all.

“I believe in using my skills to uplift others and make a meaningful difference — not just for today, but for generations to come.”

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