Government explains reasons for ATCL flight delays

DODOMA: DEPUTY Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, emphasised that passenger safety remains the government’s top priority, which sometimes leads to delays for Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) flights.

He made the remarks in the National Assembly yesterday while responding to a supplementary question from Makete MP Festo Sanga (CCM), who raised concerns about passengers arriving at airports only to discover their flights had been cancelled.

The MP also inquired about government measures to address such situations.

Deputy Minister Kihenzile explained that flight delays or cancellations are often due to operational or technical issues.

“The most important consideration is ensuring passenger safety,” he said, adding that passengers are informed in advance when delays are anticipated.

He urged ATCL to ensure that essential services and assistance are provided to passengers during delays while they wait to continue or begin their journey.

Regarding the construction of a major airport in Njombe, Kihenzile said the government is currently identifying a suitable site.

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He noted that Njombe’s agricultural potential makes it a strategic location for a large airport capable of accommodating cargo planes.

This response came after another supplementary question from MP Sanga, who asked about the government’s strategy for building a mega airport in Njombe.

Earlier, Tandahimba MP Katani Ahmad Katani (CCM) asked whether the government would compensate ATCL passengers who suffer losses due to frequent flight rescheduling.

In reply, Kihenzile acknowledged the importance of quality service for ATCL and other airlines operating in Tanzania.

He said the government is taking steps to adhere to flight schedules as closely as possible but noted that changes sometimes occur due to operational reasons or factors beyond ATCL’s control, such as weather conditions.

He said that ATCL operates according to international passenger service standards and follows the laws, regulations and guidelines of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

When schedules change, the airline ensures passengers are notified early and provided with alternative options, including alternative transport or fare refunds where necessary