Investigation ordered into how liquidated aviation firm allegedly secured state contracts

A company placed in liquidation three years ago remained on SA Civil Aviation Authority's approved list of service providers until this month A company which benefited from questionable contracts across the state-controlled transport sector was audited and approved by the SA Civil Aviation Authority (Sacaa) in 2025, despite having been liquidated two years earlier.

Despite this, Sacaa’s January 2026 list of approved aviation security screening organisations continued to list the company as an approved provider authorised to conduct passenger, hold baggage, vehicle and cargo screening at several of South Africa’s major airports, with approval valid until 4 November this year.

He said operators are expected to notify the regulator of any change in status that could affect aviation safety and security and that, unless there is a final court outcome or a letter from the affected organisation confirming liquidation, it is not legally permitted to terminate an operating licence.