The wait is over for travelers heading to the heart of the Lowveld. After a temporary hiatus caused by nature’s unpredictability, FlySafair is officially resuming scheduled flights to and from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), effective 17 February 2026.
Following the devastating floods that swept through the Limpopo province in January, the airport’s main runway suffered significant damage, making it unsuitable for commercial jet operations. While the airport remained partially open for smaller aircraft via a secondary strip, FlySafair’s fleet required the full restoration of the primary runway to ensure the highest safety standards.
Why the Pause?
The January floods weren’t just a minor inconvenience; they compromised the structural integrity of the main runway. Here is a quick look at why the suspension was necessary:
- Runway Requirements: Unlike smaller carriers that could utilize the shorter secondary runway, FlySafair’s larger commercial aircraft require the full length and load-bearing capacity of the main strip.
- Safety First: The damage rendered the surface unsafe for heavy-duty landings and take-offs.
- Extensive Repairs: The airport authorities have spent the last several weeks conducting a comprehensive refurbishment to bring the infrastructure back to international standards.
A Word from the Flight Deck
Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair, expressed the airline’s enthusiasm for the return:
“We are thrilled to be back at Hoedspruit and reconnecting our passengers with this beloved destination. While we know the suspension was frustrating, it was not something we could safely work around. We are grateful to the airport authorities for completing the necessary repairs and are proud to be back in the air on this route.”
Reconnecting the Safari Corridor
Hoedspruit serves as a vital gateway for the Greater Kruger National Park and the surrounding Limpopo tourism hub. The resumption of these flights restores a seamless link for:
- International Tourists heading to luxury lodges.
- Local Adventurers seeking a weekend in the bush.
- Business Travelers supporting the region’s growing economy.
Ready to head back to the bush? Seats are now available for booking. Visit www.flysafair.co.za to secure your spot on the next flight to the wild.
