The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Rev. Musa Zondi attended a welcoming dinner for the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa (BARSA) Aviation Summit at The Capital Zimbali Resort in Durban.

The dinner brought together aviation industry leaders, airline representatives and key stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and highlight the importance of air connectivity in growing tourism, trade and investment in KwaZulu-Natal. Speaking at the event, MEC Zondi emphasised the province’s commitment to working closely with airline partners to improve air access, increase visitor numbers and support economic growth.

“As provincial government, our role is not to control, but to facilitate. We have branded ourselves as Durban Direct, a conglomeration of individual entities working together to drive and grow air route connectivity as a collective. This body is committed to supporting route development initiatives, aligning tourism and destination marketing with airline strategies, and working collaboratively with national departments and regulators to promote ease of access for international travellers. In doing so, we are strengthening the Aerotropolis ecosystem around King Shaka International Airport”, said MEC Zondi.

The MEC added that collaboration with aviation industry organisations such as BARSA is critical in identifying practical solutions that enhance competitiveness and stimulate growth. “Through collaboration with organisations such as BARSA, we can identify practical solutions that improve competitiveness and stimulate growth, ensuring that KwaZulu-Natal remains an attractive destination for global travellers and investors,” he said.