South Africa's 43 Air School Expands - New Simulators, Growth to 70-Aircraft Fleet and 6th Runway in 40% Capacity Expansion Due June 2026

South Africa – 43 Air School, the largest integrated flight training organisation in Southern Africa, has announced a major infrastructure expansion at its flagship Port Alfred campus that will increase pilot training capacity by 40%. The project, announced on 9 March 2026, is currently 80% complete, with full commissioning expected by June 2026.

• The aircraft fleet at Port Alfred will increase to 70 aircraft, enhancing training throughput and operational flexibility to meet growing international demand.
• A fourth parallel runway will be added to the Port Alfred facility, bringing the campus total to six runways and further supporting the increased flight activity generated by the expanded fleet.
• The aircraft maintenance division has been expanded by an additional 2,000 square metres of workspace, materially increasing engineering capacity and aircraft readiness to support the larger training operation.
• Two new flight simulators are being commissioned as part of the expansion, including the ALSIM ALX, reinforcing the academy's advanced simulation training capability across the full training spectrum from PPL to MCC.
• Student accommodation is being expanded by 60 rooms, bringing total on-campus capacity to 450 rooms. Campus facilities including canteen and social areas are also being upgraded.
• A recruitment and training drive is underway for 30 additional flight instructors, which will bring the ab initio instructor team to approximately 75 dedicated instructors upon completion.

Statements

• "Our continued investment ensures that 43 Air School remains at the forefront of aviation training, not only in Africa but globally," said Attie Niemann, Group Chairman of 43 Air School. "This expansion allows us to train more airline-ready pilots while maintaining the high standards, safety culture, and personalized instruction that the academy is known for."

About 43 Air School
43 Air School is a leading flight training academy based in Port Alfred, South Africa, offering Integrated ATPL, and modular flight training, with training pathways also covering aircraft maintenance engineering and first-stage air traffic control. The school supports cadet training for both independent students and airline-sponsored programs across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Source: 43 Air School