By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirmed that two passengers died on Saturday, one at OR Tambo International (ORTIA) and one at King Shaka International Airport.
ACSA said one of the travellers fell from parking Level 5 to the ground level at OR Tambo International Airport.
“Police and airport health officials stationed at the 24-hour clinic were immediately alerted to the incident,” said spokesman Ernest Mulibana.
The unidentified traveller was later declared dead by paramedics.
At King Shaka International Airport, an unidentified male traveller collapsed at the airport terminal’s domestic arrival area.
“Emergency services were immediately called and attended to him, but he was unfortunately declared dead on the scene,” said Mulibana.
He said the cause of death in both incidents is still unknown and the matter has been handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and that an inquest docket has been opened for further investigations.
“ACSA extends deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of both travellers during this difficult time.”
Meanwhile, flights have resumed at King Phalo Airport in East London after pandemonium at the airport on Friday. Gloomy weather conditions coupled with Navigation Systems problems made it impossible for any flights to land or take off at the facility.
Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose said dozens of travellers were left stranded and frustrated.
“Weather conditions have improved significantly; the skies have cleared and flights are back in the skies. Our colleagues at ATNS [Air Traffic Navigation Services] are working around the clock to have their navigation systems challenges resolved.”
Six flights were cancelled and two others were delayed on Wednesday due to severe weather conditions and the suspension of certain Instrument Flight Procedures at King Phalo Airport.
Last month, ATNS suspended procedures for all instrument-navigation flight approaches at airports in George, Kimberley, Polokwane, Mthatha and Richards Bay indefinitely.