NEARLY four months after the Zululand Observer reported on the deteriorating condition of the Empangeni Airfield , negotiations are still underway to finalise a temporary lease agreement between the City of uMhlathuze and tenants.
And while talks continue, the airfield is still without electricity and water after basic services were disconnected last year, making it increasingly difficult for medical, security and private companies who utilise the airstrip.
With only 12 aircraft currently in operation, including eight microlights, there are mounting fears of vandalism of the few remaining hangars which house aircraft.
The standoff between tenants and the City began last year after lessees terminated their contract, essentially ceasing municipal services at the strip.
Currently the Air Club of Zululand is mowing the field and trying to keep it operational at their own expense.
‘I am in regular contact with the municipality and we are making progress with regards to the temporary lease,’ said Chairman of the Air Club of Zululand, Donavan Barton-Hobbs.
‘Certain pre-conditions need to be met, including repair of the vandalised hangars and clubhouse. The municipality has indicated that there are no funds available at the moment. ‘Currently, the airfield is not viable. This airfield used to house almost 20 aircraft at one time. We have made a commitment to maintain the strip for companies that do utilise the airfield. As soon as the municipality finds funds to keep their commitment, this agreement can be finalised,’ said Barton-Hobbs.
Utilised
The field is utilised by Air Ambulance Service, which transports mainly pregnant teenagers who experience complications to Ngwelezana Hospital or the Lower Umfolozi War Memorial Regional Hospital.
The agricultural sector also uses it for crop spraying and firefighting aircraft, while the SAPS utilise the strip for crime prevention initiatives.
In addition, security companies frequently make use of the airfield to track stolen cars, suspects and even cattle, as well as an anti-rhino poaching unit which uses the airstrip for their aerial surveillance aircraft.
‘Aviation is going to collapse if there is no municipal intervention and this will have a domino effect on services,’ said Gyro-copter pilot and former chairman of the Air Club of Zululand, Mike French.
‘Theft and vandalism is continuing as thieves cart away parts of the hangars. Municipal assets are being destroyed. Urgency is needed and there is no time to drag one’s feet,’ French said.
