Chamber of Mines warns against aircraft flying at low altitude over opencast coal mines

 The Chamber of Mines of South Africa sent a letter to the South African Civil Aviation Authority on Wednesday warning against aircraft flying at low altitudes over opencast coal mining operations. This followed a number of reports from its members, particularly those operating in the Middelburg – Emalahleni (Witbank) areas that aircraft regularly fly at low altitudes over their operations.

“This is a hazardous practice as these mines conduct blasting on a regular basis as part of their mining operations work involving large quantities of high explosives. While mines take care to limit hazards resulting from blasting work, concussion and airborne debris cannot be eliminated totally. Aircraft flying at low altitudes, therefore, run the risk of flying over mining operations at a time when blasting takes place. This could lead to accidents, particularly as those responsible for blasting work would not be aware of any approaching aircraft. Concern for the elimination, or minimising of incidents that could lead to harm or loss of life is high on the agenda of the Chamber and its members,” says Dick Kruger of the Chamber.

Kruger adds that as some of these coal mines are operating at high efficiency levels to meet Eskom’s demand for coal for electricity generation, the Chamber and its members are working hard to avoid any incidents that could interrupt their operations. “As it is, most of our members have continued to operate at 90% of electricity supply since January this year. Our commitment to do our part to improve the electricity supply situation in South Africa remains intact so that we can return to 100% supply as soon as possible,” Kruger adds.

Kruger recommends that aircraft overflying opencast mining operations should maintain a minimum altitude of 700 metres above ground level.

For any enquiries related to this media statement please contact:

Jabu Maphalala
Deputy Communications Adviser
Chamber of Mines of South Africa