By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Johannesburg, 19 February 2026 – FlySafair has officially resumed scheduled services to and from Hoedspruit Airport, restoring a key domestic route following extensive runway repairs necessitated by January’s devastating floods in Limpopo.
Operations recommenced on 17 February 2026 after the successful refurbishment of the airport’s main runway, which had sustained significant structural damage during the severe weather event. While Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) remained partially functional throughout the disruption period, only smaller aircraft were able to utilise the shorter secondary runway. Larger commercial aircraft, including FlySafair’s Boeing fleet, require the full length and structural integrity of the primary runway for safe operations.
Flood Damage and Infrastructure Recovery
The January floods caused widespread infrastructure strain across Limpopo province, with Hoedspruit’s main runway among the critical assets affected. The damage rendered it unsafe for operations by larger carriers, leading to a temporary suspension of FlySafair’s services to the destination.
The completion of comprehensive repair and resurfacing works has now cleared the way for the return of full commercial activity at the airport.
“We are thrilled to be back at Hoedspruit and reconnecting our passengers with this beloved destination,” said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair. “The damage to the main runway was extensive, and while we know the suspension of services was frustrating, it was not something we could safely work around. Smaller aircraft were able to continue using the shorter runway during this time, but our fleet required the full length and integrity of the main runway. We are grateful to the airport authorities for completing the necessary repairs and are proud to be back in the air on this route.”
Restoring a Vital Tourism and Business Link
Hoedspruit serves as a critical gateway to the Greater Kruger National Park region and the broader Limpopo tourism corridor, supporting both leisure travellers and business connectivity. The reinstatement of FlySafair’s services restores essential capacity on a route that plays a pivotal role in regional economic activity.
For tourism operators, lodges and hospitality businesses in the area, the airline’s return signals renewed momentum ahead of peak travel periods. For corporate travellers and regional stakeholders, it re-establishes efficient access between Limpopo and major metropolitan hubs.
Looking Ahead
FlySafair’s resumption of flights underscores the importance of resilient aviation infrastructure in maintaining connectivity, particularly in regions heavily reliant on tourism.
With operations now fully reinstated, passengers can once again book direct services to Hoedspruit through the airline’s official website.
The reopening not only marks the restoration of a runway — it represents the revival of a vital travel artery linking one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations with the rest of the country.
