Consortium will operate Skukuza Airport

The announcement follows a lengthy process of technical evaluation and adjudication of bids submitted in response to a request for proposals issued in April 2013.

According to Dr Mabunda this development will benefit SANParks' long haul clients and those from major centers who will no longer be subjected to a two hour drive from Nelspruit to the Kruger National Park. "We are reliving a tradition that started in 1959 to enhance visitor convenience and experience and we are looking forward to working with our new partners in taking the business of managing national parks assets to another level."

Customers will benefit

In his reaction to the announcement Robert More, Lion Sands co-founder and CEO said it is a privilege to be involved in this venture. "Our lodges are all in close proximity to Skukuza and our customers will benefit significantly from re-opening the Skukuza airport to scheduled air services."

Carl Trieloff, commercial director of special projects at Fed Air said they are proud to be part of the consortium behind the winning bid. "We are looking forward to providing visitors the opportunity to experience a high quality, affordable bushveld experience."

Rodger Foster, Airlink's CEO responded by saying his company is delighted to be in the consortium and looking forward to delivering scheduled air services to Skukuza, and access to all lodges within the Skukuza precinct. This is going to make traveling to the Kruger National Park simpler and affordable.

First flights in 2014

Skukuza Airport Management Company will be given access to the Skukuza airport facility from 1 September 2013, in order to commence with the alterations and improvements essential to bringing the airport to the international standard, which will include rehabilitation of the runway.

It is envisaged that the airport upgrades should be substantially completed by 1 November 2013 to achieve the necessary licensing by the SA Civil Aviation Authority. It is anticipated that the licensing process will be completed before the first quarter of 2014 with scheduled flights set to commence in March 2014.