Retraction: Article on alleged flight disruptions at South African airports

We hereby retract our previously published article reporting that travellers were stranded at O.R. Tambo International Airport due to 152 delayed flights and seven cancellations.

The article relied on a report originally published by Travel and Tour World, titled "Travellers Stranded at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg South Africa as 152 Flights Are Delayed and 7 Cancelled Disrupting South African Airways, Emirates, British Airways and More." That source article has since been removed from its website.

Following communication from the duly appointed communications agency for Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), we have been informed that the claims contained in the report are factually incorrect and materially misleading.

ACSA has categorically stated that there were no such flight delays reported on the date in question at O.R. Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, or King Shaka International Airport.

We have also been advised that the operational circumstances described appear to relate to post-festive season congestion reported in early January and were incorrectly presented as current events. Furthermore, the inclusion of Kulula and British Airways as operating airlines in this context was inaccurate and created a misleading impression regarding current airport operations.

ACSA has indicated that this framing falsely suggested ongoing operational disruptions, carrying reputational implications for the company and the broader aviation sector.

For context, the delays referenced in earlier coverage by local South African media were clearly described as seasonal and temporary, linked to festive-period congestion. Our article did not adequately reflect that context.

We sincerely apologise to Airports Company South Africa, the affected airports, airlines, and our readers for publishing information that was not accurate or reflective of current airport operations.

The article has been removed from our website and all associated platforms. We remain committed to responsible journalism and will ensure that future reporting on operational matters is verified directly with the relevant authorities.