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Hoedspruit flights halted as floodwaters isolate parts of Limpopo
Flights to Hoedspruit grounded as floods cut off Limpopo
Relentless rain has brought parts of Limpopo to a standstill, grounding flights, cutting off communities, and forcing officials into emergency mode. At the centre of the disruption is Hoedspruit, a key travel gateway for local residents, safari tourists, and lodges linked to the Kruger National Park.
Airlink has suspended all flights to and from Hoedspruit after severe flooding left surrounding roads impassable and restricted access to the airport. For now, there is no clear timeline on when services will resume.
Why Hoedspruit matters more than most airports
Hoedspruit Airport is not just another regional hub. It is a lifeline for surrounding towns and a major access point for game reserves, lodges, and conservation areas that depend heavily on reliable air travel. When flights stop here, the ripple effect reaches tourism operators, staff, suppliers, and travellers who often have limited road alternatives.
Airlink confirmed that flights will only restart once government authorities, the airport operator, and local structures confirm it is safe to do so. The airline has been working closely with SANParks and private lodges to support stranded passengers and to keep customers informed if they are booked to fly later this week.
Travellers stranded and plans on hold
Travellers have been left stranded at lodges or forced to adjust travel plans, as access routes to Hoedspruit Airport remain unsafe due to ongoing flooding.
Airlink has acknowledged the inconvenience and says teams are actively coordinating with local partners to minimise disruption and speed up a safe return to operations.
Flooding disrupts daily life across Limpopo
The flight suspensions come as flooding continues to affect several districts, including Mopani, Vhembe, and parts of Sekhukhune. Some communities have been cut off entirely, with emergency services placed on high alert as rainfall continues.
The impact has extended beyond travel. The start of the school term was disrupted in badly affected areas, with authorities advising that children should not return to school where safety cannot be guaranteed.
Limpopo’s MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu, has called emergency meetings to coordinate disaster response efforts. Mayors have been instructed to prepare urgent, costed damage reports for submission to the Provincial Disaster Management Centre.
A reminder of how quickly weather can reshape travel
For travellers heading to Limpopo, the situation is a stark reminder that summer rainfall can dramatically alter plans, particularly in rural and conservation areas. While flights remain suspended, authorities are urging patience as safety assessments continue.
For now, Hoedspruit remains grounded, and much of Limpopo is focused on recovery, coordination, and keeping communities safe until the rain finally eases.
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Source: The Citizen
Featured Image: EWN
