Cape Town – The safe recovery of a Kenya Airways flight (KQ784), which suffered a tyre failure during landing and was left disabled on the runway at the Cape Town International Airport, has earned high praise.
The incident, which disrupted other flights, occurred on Tuesday, 4 August 2026.
“The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) extends its sincere appreciation to all employees and stakeholders who contributed to the safe management and recovery of operations at the Cape Town International Airport,” Khulu Phasiwe, ATNS spokesperson, said on Wednesday, 5 August 2026.
“The runway, which was closed by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) after a Kenya Airways aircraft experienced a tyre burst during landing, was successfully reopened last night before 20:00, allowing affected airlines to resume operations and recover their schedules.”
ATNS’ Chairperson Adv. Zola Majavu extended his appreciation to the Air Traffic Controllers and Air Traffic Flow Specialists who worked throughout the disruption and coordinated the traffic flow, supported collaborative decision-making, and enabled the orderly recovery of affected flights under challenging operational conditions.
Commenting further, Acting Chief Executive Officer of ATNS, Matome Moholola, said: “We also acknowledge the Air Traffic Services Units that safely accommodated diverted aircraft and, where required, extended their hours of service.
“Your flexibility, professionalism and support were critical to protecting the wider network and ensuring a safe outcome.”
Moholola added: “We also extend our appreciation to the Central Airspace Management Unit, ACSA, the airlines, airport operational teams, the Aeronautical Information Management Unit, the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre and the Operations Management team for their leadership and teamwork in managing a highly visible and successful recovery effort.
“This response demonstrated the value of collaboration, coordinated decision-making and operational commitment.”
Spokesperson Phasiwe said ATNS welcomes the overwhelming messages of support and congratulations about the professional and efficient manner in which it managed the safe landing and departures of flights despite tough operating conditions.
