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PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The long-awaited tender for the development of Plettenberg Bay Airport has finally been awarded with the contract going to rsa.AERO, the company that also runs the Cape Winelands airport.
The strategic deal was concluded this week with rsa.AERO after a rigorous evaluation process and the completion of the legally prescribed appeals period, said a statement released by Bitou Municipality today, Friday 16 February.
“This strategic partnership is poised to bring about transformative changes and propel our tourism sector to new heights,” said the statement.
It will see the Plettenberg Bay airport fully revamped and upgraded with new hangers, a modern terminal building and the resurfacing of the runway, in the near future.
Mbulelo Memani, Bitou Municipal Manager, said the conclusion of this tender is beneficial for the town as Plett is a leading tourist destination in the region. “Tourism plays a key role in the socio-economic prosperity of Bitou and the region.”
The deal marks a significant milestone in Bitou's efforts to enhance opportunities for local residents and elevate the region's tourism industry.
The strategic deal was concluded this week with rsa.AERO after a rigorous evaluation process and the completion of the legally prescribed appeals period.
This strategic partnership is poised to bring about transformative changes and propel our tourism sector to new heights.
Memani said the municipality was not an expert in the running of airports and handing over to experts will ensure that Bitou has a safe and efficient air access.
“In the bidding document, there are actionable promises that can see more flight options for Bitou. Bitou Municipality will provide an enabling environment for more businesses who are likely to take advantage of this new venture,” Memani added.
Managing Director for rsa.AERO, Nick Ferguson, said he appreciated the confidence that the municipality has placed in rsa.AERO.
“The team is made up of a group of professionals who are competent, passionate about aviation, and making a meaningful contribution to society at large.
“Plettenberg Bay is a premier tourist destination in the region. It requires an airport that delivers safe and reliable services. We are dedicated to fulfilling this commitment, ensuring that the airport becomes a source of pride for all citizens alike,” said Ferguson.
Plett Tourism CEO Patty Butterworth said tourism played a pivotal role in driving socio-economic prosperity in the region and the nation at large. “South Africa... has established itself as a global tourist destination.
"The Western Cape, particularly the city of Cape Town, are consistently recognised as preferred destinations, and the Garden Route, with its myriad premier tourist offerings, contributes significantly to this reputation.
“The Plettenberg Bay Airport plays a crucial role in our marketing efforts at Plett Tourism. We ‘sell’ direct access to our domestic and international travellers regularly.
Managing director of rsa.AERO Nick Ferguson; Lead Governance & Assurance for rsa.AERO Tanya Jeffrey; Bitou Municipal Manager Mbulelo Memani, and Bitou Head of Legal Alan Croutz at the signing of the agreement.
"The Plett Airport is a key marketing tool for the local tourism industry, and we look forward to watching the economic spin-offs and job creation it will have for Bitou.”
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