By Kopano Dibakwane
Mpumalanga province has affirmed its position as the tourist destination of choice with the launch of a historic airline route between the Kruger International Airport and Cape Town International Airport, in partnership with FlySafair.
The official launch was held at the Kruger International Airport on Tuesday 2 April, attended by Mpumalanga Premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, alongside members of the MTPA Board, Acting Director-General, Peter Nyoni and FlySafair airline Executive members.
Mtshweni-Tsipane said that the route will guarantee an efficient travelling experience for Mpumalanga citizens and visitors.
“ This is a milestone for us. In my previous State of The Province Address(SOPA), I did indicate that we will be bringing in Eurowing, as an international flight, of which it came. This is the second airline that we are bringing.
“ This is the first day that FlySafair has landed in Mpumalanga. This means that people who want to come and see the beauty of Mpumalanga, will be touching down whether through their cars or through flights,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
The Premier has revealed that Mpumalanga has recorded an increase of 2% in tourism in the last quarter, which affirms Mpumalanga as the second destination of choice.
“ This presents an opportunity for us to grow to greater heights. As Mpumalanga, we are really delighted and we are looking forward to launch many more routes,” she said.
Mtshweni-Tsipane said it was mentioned in her discussions with FlySafair CEO(Chief Executive Officer), that the airline needs to explore a route towards Durban, due to the high influx of people commuting from Mpumalanga to Durban and back.
She also said that FlySafair will only fly twice per week, but there’s a plan to improve the number of flights in the near future.
“ The people of Mpumalanga will be happier as they no longer have to drive to OR Tambo International Airport to catch a flight to Cape Town,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
