News

For general enquiries please contact:

Tel: (011) 723 1400 or (011) 921 6262;

E-mail: customercare@airports.co.za

For media inquiries ONLY please contact Ernest Mulibana at:

E-mail: Ernest.Mulibana@airports.co.za or Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Wed 11 September 2024

ACSA confirms flight cancellations at King Phalo Airport

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirms that due to severe weather conditions and the suspension of certain Instrument Flight Procedures at King Phalo Airport in East London, six flights were cancelled while two others were delayed earlier today, 11 September 2024.

The flight procedures are those that are currently undergoing mandatory periodic reviews as a safety measure. Therefore, under certain weather condition, particularly with reduced visibility, aircrafts may not be able to procedurally commence approach and landing.

King Phalo Airport has two runways which could not be used until the weather conditions improved. Prevalent high winds in the area further necessitated increased tactical safety parameters to be instituted in order to ensure optimal safe flight operations.

At the moment, weather conditions have improved, and normal operations have resumed. However, inclement weather conditions expected for the rest of the week. Passengers are encouraged to continuously check flight information updates on ACSA App and directly with the airlines.

ACSA apologises for the inconvenience caused.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Senior Manager: Corporate Communications

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business, Passengers

Thu 5 September 2024

ACSA reports excellent financial performance for the 2023/24 financial year

Performance Headlines:

Revenue up 16%, from R6 billion in 2022/23 to R7 billion in 2023/24
Profit before tax R1.4 billion, a significant improvement from a loss of R246 million in 2022/23
Profit after tax R472 million, recovering from a loss of R466 million in 2022/23
Gearing decreases to 17% from 24%

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is excited to report a robust and pleasing financial performance for the 2023/24 financial year, posting an impressive after-tax profit of R472 million.

Despite operating in a relatively challenging global economic environment, ACSA’s revenue increased by 16% to R7.0 billion from the R6.0 billion reported in the previous financial year, with earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) increasing by 51% to R2.9 billion (2022/23: R1.9 billion).

The company prudently contained the total operating expenditure with the return to normal operating levels, increasing by 13% to R4.1 billion (2022/23: R3.6 billion). The primary contributors to the increase in operating expenditure were maintenance, security, utilities, cleaning and employee costs.

Employee expenditure increased by to R1.6 billion (2022/23: R1.2 billion). This is due to progress on filling vacancies created by the Staff Cost Reduction Programme, introduced in 2020, and restoration of some employee rewards and benefits.

Credit losses on trade receivables were significantly lower, and the Group's investment property portfolio benefited from fair value gains. These factors positively contributed to the first after-tax profit of R472 million since the 2020 financial year, compared to a loss of R466 million in 2022/23.

Aeronautical revenue improved by 21% to R3.6 billion (FY2022/23: R3.0 billion). The 8% increase aircraft movements, 16% increase in number of departing passengers and 4.4% inflationary tariff increase contributed to this performance.

Similarly, non-aeronautical revenue performance benefited from the improved trading conditions, increasing by 12% to R3.4 billion (2022/23: R3.1 billion). The bulk of this income was derived from retail activities (R1.1 billion) and property rentals (R924 million).

The transition from the Recover and Sustain Strategy to the Innovate, Grow, and Sustain Strategy, as well as the revised Financial Plan, provided a structured management approach and a means of resourcing the business in a way that has enabled the Group to secure and safeguard its long-term sustainability.

Capital expenditure was limited to airport maintenance, refurbishments and rehabilitation, and efficiency and technology-related projects. A total of R568 million (FY2022/23: R422 million) was spent on those projects.

The annual financial statements have been audited by the group's auditors, Auditor-General South Africa, who expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. The annual financial statements, including the audit opinion and key audit matters, can be found on the group's website at https://www.airports.co.za/business/investor-relations/financial-information

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Senior Manager: Corporate Communications

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business

Wed 4 September 2024

New smiles, new lives: Smile week's gift to 25 children

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has proudly sponsored the September Smile Week initiative that will assist a total of 22 children from previously disadvantaged families to undergo reconstructive surgery and therapy at Universitas Academic Hospital (UAH), in Bloemfontein.

Coordinated by Smile Foundation and scheduled to taking place from 2 – 6 September 2024, Smile Week seeks to transform the lives of children affected by facial abnormalities and severe burns.

"We are incredibly proud to partner with the SMILE Foundation in their mission to bring hope and healing to children in need. At ACSA, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This initiative aligns perfectly with our values, and we are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of these young patients and their families" says Thabo Phateng, Airport Manager Bram Fischer International Airport.

Facial anomalies and burn injuries in children often extend far beyond what meets the eye. These physical differences often lead to emotional and psychological challenges that are deeply painful and difficult to overcome. For many of these children, the true burden lies in their social isolation and the loss of their sense of self.

Amongst the children undergoing surgery this Smile Week is Kananelo, a ten-year-old boy who carries a heavy burden for someone so young. His innocent face is etched with the scars of a terrible accident. At just two years old, a playful moment at home turned into a nightmare when a pot of hot cooking oil scalded his skin, leaving his face and neck disfigured by severe burns.

Since that day, life has never been the same for Kananelo and his family. This cruel twist of fate left an indelible mark, both physically and emotionally. His mother, employed in Sasolburg, carries the weight of worry and the burden of financial strain. Every month, she takes time off work to make the journey to Qwaqwa, where Kananelo lives with his grandmother, and together they travel to Bloemfontein Hospital for routine check-ups with each visit being a stark reminder of that fateful day that forever changed their lives.

"Seeing my boy Kananelo in so much pain after the accident breaks my heart. His burns may have healed on the outside, but inside he is suffering. Children can be very cruel. They laugh at him and call him hurtful names. He has lost his spark and doesn't even want to go to school anymore because of the bullying. Speaking is also difficult for him now because of the tight scars around his mouth and neck. This has been very hard for our whole family to see. We are extremely grateful to Smile Foundation and the kind doctors who are giving our Kananelo the chance to smile again."

"Smile Foundation expresses deep gratitude to the generous decision-makers at Airports Company South Africa. Your kindness and compassion have yet again, breathed life into our initiative. Because of your support, these children will receive life-changing surgeries, opening doors to a future filled with smiles, self-acceptance, and the simple joys of childhood", says Tarri Parfitt, CEO of Smile Foundation.

"You are also giving families the immeasurable gifts of joy, hope and emotional healing. We are eternally grateful to the dedicated surgeons, medical professionals, and hospital staff who make this miracle possible every month. You are the true heroes," she adds.

For many children bearing visible and invisible scars of facial anomalies and burn injuries, Smile Week is an immense source of hope. It offers children a chance at a brighter future.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Senior Manager: Corporate Communications

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business

Tue 27 August 2024

ACSA terminates contract for Automated Border Control (ABC) E-gates and the single token

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has terminated the contract for Automated Border Control (ABC), e-Gates and single token project awarded to a French technology company, IDEMIA.

The contract termination is in line with the conditions of the Service Level Agreement which allows for a 60-day notice period, that will allow IDEMIA to conclude the work currently underway.

The biometric and digital identity technology project remains key to ACSA’s short-to-medium term strategy to ensure a seamless and efficient customer experience connecting passengers to their next destinations, opportunities, and goals. As such, the company intends to pursue the project in the near future.

ACSA remains committed to the best interests of good corporate governance, transparency, and fairness as we continue with an independent investigation.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Stakeholders

Fri 16 August 2024

ACSA welcomes Gauteng Premier’s support on Infrastructure Development

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) welcomes Gauteng Premier, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi's support of the company's infrastructure development programme that will be rolled out across the network including O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) over the next four years.

Premier Lesufi delivered the 2024 State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Thursday 15 August 2024 in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni wherein he highlighted ACSA's intended capital investment programme aimed at positioning ORTIA as a gateway for economic development in the heart of the country's regional economic hub.

Earlier this year, ACSA announced R21.7 billion budget permission for an extensive capital expenditure programme to be implemented across the airport network. Part of the comprehensive infrastructure development plan focuses on air cargo, which undoubtedly has the potential to be a significant driver of socio-economic growth and development.

In this regard, ACSA aims to enhance its role in air cargo traffic growth in Africa with the construction of the Mid-Field Cargo Terminal at ORTIA, which will allow the airport to accommodate 750 000 metric tonnes of cargo annually. The new terminal is designed to ease congestion and expand warehouse space in the short and long term, making ORTIA globally competitive in air cargo facilitation.

ACSA welcomes Premier Lesufi's mention of Transnet's proposed construction of the PL6 Pipeline extending from Jameson Park in Heidelberg to ORTIA. The pipeline, which is vital for securing the airport's fuel supply, seeks to avert anticipated jet fuel shortages by 2028.

We particularly note with excitement news of the Gauteng Government's R120 billion investment in the expansion of Gautrain over a five-year period. The expansion into Soweto, Mamelodi, Atteridgeville, Lanseria, and Springs not only marks a significant milestone in extending the rail system's reach across the province but also for partners and stakeholders such as ACSA in making air travel even more accessible to residents. This expansion is congruent to our Passenger Experience and Mobilisation Strategy which seeks to make airports more accessible to the public including those in townships and rural areas.

The infrastructure development programme will create significant economic value for airport communities, enabling local trade, and attracting new high-value industries.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Senior Manager: Corporate Communications

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business

Thu 8 August 2024

ACSA places the Chief Information Officer on precautionary suspension

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has placed the Chief Information Officer on precautionary suspension effective today, 8 August 2024.

On Saturday 3 August 2024, ACSA issued a media statement indicating that there were no allegation of irregularities regarding ACSA’s procurement processes in the current legal proceedings before the High Court. This was indeed true based on the information we had at the time and statements issued by those involved in the project.

We have since undertaken a preliminary investigation and have now found that there is prima facie evidence of wrongdoing in relation to the biometric and digital identity technology project. It is on this basis that the Chief Information Officer has been placed on a precautionary suspension. The precautionary suspension is to allow ACSA to conduct further investigation and report back to the public on our findings.

In May 2022, ACSA embarked on a procurement process for the Automated Border Control (ABC) project, e-Gates and single token for a period of 60 months. The process culminated in the appointment of a French multinational technology company, IDEMIA, and a contract to the value of R115 million was concluded.

The contract required that at least 30% of the value be subcontracted to a South African, black-owned Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME) and/or Qualified Small Enterprise (QSE). As such, the winning bidder had a teaming agreement with a local company called InfoVerge as its black-owned EME/QSE partner (B-BBEE partner) for purposes of complying with EME/QSE requirements in the RFP.

However, ACSA became aware of an impasse between the two business partners (IDEMIA and InfoVerge) and engaged both companies with a view to foster an amicable resolution in the interest of delivering on the contract. ACSA was satisfied that the two business partners would work together in the delivery of the required services.

Despite ACSA’s efforts, the two business partners could not reach an amicable resolution. This resulted in InfoVerge approaching the High Court Gauteng Local Division (High Court), seeking relief to set aside ACSA’s decision to award the tender for the provision of Automated Border Control project to IDEMIA. In the court papers, ACSA was cited as a second respondent.

ACSA is currently considering options in relation to the contract for the provision of the ABC project, e-Gates and single token that has been entered into with IDEMIA.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business

Sat 3 August 2024

ACSA responds to media reports on Biometric Movement Control System (BMCS)

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has noted media reports on the delays in processing passengers at King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) linking these to the biometric and digital identity technology.

ACSA would like to state that the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and the Border Management Agency (BMA) are implementing a Biometric Movement Control System (BMCS) at the immigration and emigration areas in three of ACSA’s airports. The system went live in 2022 at O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) and Cape Town International Airport.

We can confirm that the BMCS, which was introduced at KSIA in the last few weeks, has been experiencing post-implementation challenges, causing long queues in the immigration areas. The BMA’s technical team is working on improving the situation by, amongst others, increasing the bandwidth to ensure the system remains online and reducing the manual processing of passengers. ACSA and BMA apologise to passengers for the delays and inconvenience caused.

Furthermore, the media has been reporting on IDEMIA on behalf of BMA, which was already implementing the BMCS. It is public knowledge that ACSA published a Request For Proposal (RFP) for the Automated Border Control (ABC) project, e-Gates and single token for a period of 60 months as part of ACSA’s biometric and digital identity technology programme.

A year prior to the publishing of the RFP, ACSA engaged in industry research to develop specifications including BMA appointed French multinational technology company, IDEMIA. This exercise sought to understand the BMCS system and its functionality as it was the system which ACSA’s ABC eGates would have to integrate. This is a normal and acceptable practice, especially when an organisation intends to procure a system of this magnitude and technical complexity.

Having followed a prudent procurement process, the contract to the value of R115-million was awarded to IDEMIA. It required that at least 30% of the contract value be subcontracted to a South African, black-owned Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME) and/or Qualified Small Enterprise (QSE). As such, the winning bidder had a teaming agreement with a local company called InfoVerge as its black owned EME/QSE partner (B-BBEE partner) for purposes of complying with EME/QSE requirements in the RFP.

However, ACSA became aware of an impasse between the two business partners IDEMIA and InfoVerge and engaged both companies with a view to foster an amicable resolution and in the interest of delivering on the contract. ACSA was satisfied that the two business partners would work together in the delivery of the required services.

It is important to categorically state that the matter is a contractual dispute between InfoVerge and IDEMIA, and there is no allegation of irregularities regarding ACSA’s procurement processes in the current legal proceedings before the High Court.

ACSA can indicate that the allegations being made in the media are not true and will be tested in the court of law. The matter is sub judice, and ACSA is fully cooperating with the legal processes.

Further, as the matter relates to issues pertaining to B-BBEE, IDEMIA and InfoVerge are advised to refer the matter to the B-BBEE Commission, an entity within the administration of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), which is empowered to consider matters pertaining to B-BBEE Act. B-BBEE Commission | Department of Trade & Industry – Department of Trade and Industry Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Commission

Notwithstanding the current challenges, ACSA is excited about the prospects of the biometric and digital identity technology that is being procured. The technology will redefine the airport experience in South Africa and is expected to be rolled out across the ACSA airport network in 2026. It will streamline immigration processes, reduce transaction times, enhance security and passenger experience.

ACSA has finalised a future-proof technology solution, with the first phase set for delivery in November 2024. While the technology is still in the planning phases, we are confident that, once fully rolled out across the ACSA airport network, the BMCS system will facilitate seamless connections of passengers to their next destinations, opportunities, and goals.

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Senior Manager: Corporate Communications

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Stakeholders

Sat 20 July 2024

ACSA upholds international security standards and respects Constitutional rights

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has noted online media reports on security screening and searching of passengers and appeals for cooperation with airport security personnel as they undertake this basic but essential part of aviation security.

As our airports across the network continue to experience a steady increase in passenger volumes, in the interest of keeping everyone safe, ACSA will continue to adhere to all internationally recognised standard operating procedures and comply with national aviation legislation and regulations that strive to ensure the security and safety of passengers.

Our security protocols include random physical searches that are performed for all passengers after a certain number of people have passed a security search point at the airport terminal. These standard practices are in line with the security manual of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Searches are designed to be conducted for all travellers, even when there is no trigger from the security checkpoint. As such, ACSA calls on all travellers to note that when being ushered through the screening process by airport security personnel, they may be required to remove any headgear including fixed religious and cultural headgear.

At all times, the physical searches will be conducted with due sensitivity to recognised religious and cultural practices. This includes providing an appropriate space to conduct a physical search, should the passenger so prefer.

ACSA acknowledges that physical searches may cause discomfort to our passengers, and in view of this, our security personnel have been instructed to ensure that all searches are conducted in a respectful and courteous manner.

“We would like to categorically state that ACSA does not have any policies or procedures that discriminate against any passengers or airport users on the basis of gender, race, cultural beliefs, religion, or place of origin," states General Mzwandile Petros, Group Executive for Enterprise Security.

“South Africa is a constitutional democracy that accords equal regard to all individuals regardless of their faith, race, gender, or cultural background. ACSA, as a state-owned company, subscribes to all principles as espoused in the Constitution, which ensure a free and equal society. Furthermore, we are always ready to observe and defend the rights of all persons at the facilities we manage,” he said.

We urge all airport users to report any incidents of unfair discrimination to the ACSA free call hotline number: 0800008080 or alternatively email us on acsa@thehotline.co.za

For media enquiries:

Ernest Mulibana – 082 263 7372

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business, Passengers

Fri 19 July 2024

Airports Company South Africa Unaffected by global Microsoft outage

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is not affected by the reported global Microsoft outage linked to cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike that is impacting numerous organisations including some airlines around the world.

ACSA does not use CrowdStrike services. We want to assure all stakeholders and the public that the ACSA airport network remains unaffected by this outage with operations running as normal.

ACSA relies on cutting-edge, state-of-the-art cyber protection capabilities to ensure the security and continuity of operations. Our robust cybersecurity measures are designed to safeguard against a wide range of threats, ensuring seamless functioning of our critical infrastructure.

We remain committed to maintaining highest standards of

cybersecurity and operational excellence. Nevertheless, our airport management team continues to monitor the situation closely.

In view of the widespread impact of the global outage, we would like to encourage all travellers to contact their respective airlines for further flight information. Travellers are also encouraged to download the ACSA Mobile App and subscribe for LIVE flight

notifications.

For media enquiries:

Mediadesk@airports.co.za

Issued by Airports Company South Africa

//ENDS//

Business, Passengers

Fri 12 July 2024

Airports Company South Africa partners with South African National Deaf Association to empower front-line staff with Sign Language Training

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with the South African National Deaf Association (SANDA), an independent non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the deaf community with equal opportunities and recognition in society. This collaboration underscores ACSA's commitment to supporting the disability sector in providing skills development and is one of the key focus areas underpinning our Socio-Economic Development (SED) strategy.

ACSA as an organ of the state and SOC under the Department of Transport should honor the declaration and agreement of the Ministers of Transport, and Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities which was taken at the Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility in Gauteng, 25-26 April 2024. One of the key priorities is providing an enabling environment that includes capacity development, awareness, education, and training programmes that include people with disabilities as educators and trainers. This will increase understanding and knowledge of universal design and universal access for government officials, role players, and stakeholders.

Furthermore, in line with ICAO regulation standard Annex 9: Facilitation of Passengers with Impaired Mobility, ACSA and SANDA have embarked on an important initiative to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of our airports. As part of this partnership, SANDA will provide sign language training to 130 front-line staff across ACSA's network of airports.

The training kicked off with staff at O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) from Monday, July 8th, to Friday, July 12th. Today marked the certification handover ceremony, celebrating the successful completion of this initial basic sign language training phase.

This training is crucial for our employees, who interact daily with passengers of varying abilities, including those with hearing impairments, hence our partnership with SANDA. By equipping our staff with sign language skills, we aim to improve the travel experience for our passengers with impaired mobility, ensuring that they receive the same level of service and support as all our other travellers.

Most significantly, this initiative aligns with the recent recognition by the National Assembly on May 3, 2023, that declared Sign Language as the 12th official language of South Africa. ACSA is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all passengers feel acknowledged and supported.

"We are delighted to partner with SANDA in this ground-breaking project," said Ele Tshikovhi, Group Manager Transformation at ACSA.

"Providing front-line and/or customer-facing staff with sign language training not only enhances their skills but also reinforces our dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Part of our medium- and long-term plan is to collaborate with all stakeholders within the airport eco-system and ensure staff who are customer-facing receive training on sign language. This initiative will make a significant difference in the lives of our passengers with hearing impairments, ensuring they have a seamless and supportive travel experience."

ACSA's collaboration with SANDA is a testament to our ongoing efforts to adhere to international standards while championing diversity, equity, and inclusivity initiatives. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on our staff and the broader society.

//ENDS//

Stakeholders