Pretoria - Cabinet has approved the White Paper on a National Civil Aviation Policy that enhances civil aviation safety.
“The White Paper on National Civil Aviation Policy, which promotes and enhances civil aviation safety, security and environmental compliance, was approved. It also promotes the national interest of South Africa and facilitates the expansion of trade and tourism,” Cabinet said in a statement on Thursday.
The White Paper further promotes the development of an efficient and productive aviation industry, which is capable of competing both locally and internationally.
In the Government Gazette of 11 September 2015, the Department of Transport called for public comments on the draft White Paper on National Civil Aviation Policy.
In the draft White Paper, Transport Minister Dipuo Peters said the document recognises the strategic role entrusted upon South Africa’s aviation infrastructure and operations to support economic development and to serve as a catalyst for increased trade, tourism and job creation.
At the time, the Minister said the policy recognises both the direct contribution of aviation and the wider economic potential of airport precincts, including through the development of aerotropolises.
The White Paper also provides, for the first time in the history of civil aviation in South Africa, comprehensive policy on aircraft noise and engine emissions, in line with the constitutional obligations and international standards regarding environmental matters.
National Airports Development Plan
At its meeting held on Wednesday, Cabinet also approved the National Airports Development Plan which was initiated by the White Paper on National Civil Aviation Policy.
The aim of the plan is to address the gaps between the current airport network and the future desired state.
The National Airports Development Plan will guide and support both overall network planning and the development of individual airports integrated within their broader spatial and transport contexts, in consultation with key airport stakeholders.
“Airport infrastructure is an integral part of the South African transport system and contributes to the socio-economic development of the country by facilitating domestic and international tourism and trade,” said Cabinet. – SAnews.gov.za
