According to Statistics South Africa, the demand for air transport has been increasing for the past decade in South Africa. This is due to an increase in physical activity and major economic development in different cities across the country.

North-West University (NWU) transport economics graduate Amantle Gaokgorwe investigated the determinants that authorities can look at to revive the Mahikeng Airport.

Her honours study titled “The determinants of air travel demand in the North West Province, Mahikeng Airport”, also looked at the challenges the Mahikeng Airport is facing and how these could be overcome.

Amantle says air transport plays a huge role in the economic activity of the province.

“While air transport in general support international and national economic growth, reviving the Mahikeng Airport will specifically benefit the local communities by creating jobs.”

Amantle says the determinants of air travel demand include low ticket fares, safety, quality customer service, and good marketing strategies.

She says viable solutions should be utilised – not only to address the major challenges the airport is facing – but also to enable the airport to operate sustainably.

“One suggestion is that the airport should improve its marketing strategies to attract more customers. Using multiple mediums to market the airport and the services offered will create more awareness and also attract tourists,” she adds.

“I would recommend that research should be conducted on which mediums will be the most effective to improve awareness of the airport. Another suggestion is that the airport should employ qualified and professional individuals that can offer high-quality services. They should also seek financial assistance from companies and/or operations that are willing to support the airport.”

Amantle Gaokgorwe.