VEREENIGING.- Following a recent Sedibeng Ster story about the closure of the Vereeniging airport, the Sedibeng District Municipality (SDM) has responded, offering what it said is clarity, and an update on the matter.

The SDM said that it acknowledges the statement made Rian Lubbe, Freedom Front Plus (FF+) Councillor in the SDM who said that this step (closure) has a direct and detrimental impact on the region’s aviation sector and is further hampering the already fragile economy of the Sedibeng District (Lesedi, Midvaal and Emfuleni).

” There are challenges…”

The municipality said that it confirms that the challenges highlighted by Lubbe are well documented in official Council records and that these challenges, which accumulated over a considerable period, ultimately resulted in the cancellation of the Aerodrome’s license in 2019, owing to non-compliance with strict perimeter fencing regulations designed to ensure the safety, security and operational integrity of the facility.

In response to these challenges, the SDM said that it has has taken decisive steps to secure the future of the Vereeniging Aerodrome.

“Council has resolved to extend the facility’s mandate through a private sector partnership, which will see the Aerodrome leased to suitable investors who are committed to rehabilitating and transforming the aviation facility for the benefit of the entire region. This initiative is aimed at promoting General Aviation and stimulating the local economy.”

No R180 000 tender was approved!!!

The SDM said that it recognises that aviation is a capital-intensive sector, and that sustainable progress requires significant investment and a long-term strategy.

“To this end, the relevant department is currently developing Terms of Reference in accordance with the required legal procedures. Upon completion, a formal Supply Chain Management process will be followed, which will include the issuance of a public notice inviting interested investors to submit proposals for the leasing of the Aerodrome.”

On the alleged R180 000 maintenance tender which Lubbe said was approved for maintenance work in July 2025, the municipality said that no such tender was approved or issued.

“The Freedom Front Plus is respectfully requested to provide further details…”

“The Freedom Front Plus is respectfully requested to provide further details and supporting evidence in this regard so that the matter can be thoroughly investigated. The sewer-related concern raised has been formally reported to Metsi-a-Lekoa for their urgent attention and resolution.”

The SDM further said that the perception that the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has closed the Vereeniging Aerodrome, is factually incorrect.

“The SACAA has not closed the facility, nor has it initiated any such process. As the official aviation regulator, the SACAA remains a supportive body that is available at all times to provide guidance on matters of aviation safety. Aerodrome remains accident-free to date. The District Municipality reaffirms its commitment to accelerating the process of bringing about positive and meaningful development at the Aerodrome for the benefit of the entire Sedibeng region.”