Cape Town Airport: Kenya Airways Flight Successfully Recovered After Tire Failure, Earning Widespread Praise
Cape Town – The effective recovery of Kenya Airways flight (KQ784), which faced a tyre failure during landing and became immobilized on the runway at Cape Town International Airport, has garnered considerable praise.
This event, which affected a number of other flights, occurred on Tuesday, 4 August 2026.
“The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) extends its sincere thanks to all personnel and stakeholders who contributed to the efficient management and recovery of operations at Cape Town International Airport,” stated Khulu Phasiwe, ATNS spokesperson, on Wednesday, 5 August 2026.
“After the tyre burst incident involving the Kenya Airways aircraft, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) quickly closed the runway, which was successfully reopened the same evening before 20:00, allowing affected airlines to resume operations and adjust their schedules.”
ATNS Chairperson Adv. Zola Majavu conveyed his appreciation to the Air Traffic Controllers and Air Traffic Flow Specialists who effectively managed traffic during the disruption, promoting collaborative decision-making and facilitating the smooth recovery of impacted flights under challenging conditions.
Furthermore, Acting Chief Executive Officer of ATNS, Matome Moholola, remarked: “We also acknowledge the Air Traffic Services Units that proficiently handled redirected aircraft and extended their service hours as necessary.”
“Your flexibility, professionalism, and support were crucial in protecting the broader network and ensuring a favorable outcome.”
Moholola added: “We extend our thanks to the Central Airspace Management Unit, ACSA, the airlines, airport operational teams, the Aeronautical Information Management Unit, the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre, and the Operations Management team for their leadership and collaboration in executing a successful and highly visible recovery operation.
“This response highlighted the significance of teamwork, coordinated decision-making, and commitment to operations.”
Spokesperson Phasiwe noted that ATNS is grateful for the many messages of support and praise regarding the professional and efficient management of flight arrivals and departures, even in challenging operational situations.