Transformer theft suspends night flights in Mozambique
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Club of Mozambique
The theft of transformers powering around 40 runway lights has led to the immediate suspension of night flights at Lichinga Airport, northern Mozambique, with losses of 20.5 million meticais. State-owned Aeroportos de Moçambique attributes the damage to repeated acts of vandalism.
The theft of transformers powering around 40 runway lights at Lichinga Airport, in Niassa province in northern Mozambique, has led to the immediate suspension of night flights. Repeated acts of vandalism, which also include the destruction of lights, have caused estimated losses of 20.5 million meticais, according to Aeroportos de Moçambique (AdM).
Saíde Mahoma Júnior, AdM’s executive administrator responsible for administration and finance, said the damage to the lighting was compromising landings when visibility was poor. Niassa Secretary of State Silva Livone promised firm action against those responsible and called for the airport’s facilities to be protected.
The authorities are also working to increase the frequency of flights to Lichinga and install aircraft refuelling infrastructure. According to Silva Livone, the acts of vandalism are undermining these efforts to develop air links and tourism in the province.
