Flight Issues Cause Delays for Returning Soldiers from Goma Deployment

JOHANNESBURG – The scheduled return flight of 249 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops has been delayed due to logistical and contractual challenges, postponing their long-awaited arrival back home from a deployment in the conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The troops were deployed to Goma in December 2023 as part of a regional intervention under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission. Their tour of duty formed part of efforts to help stabilize one of the most volatile regions in Africa, where violent armed groups have caused ongoing humanitarian crises.

These soldiers make up the first group of SANDF personnel set to return to South Africa, and their anticipated arrival had been scheduled for midday on Friday at Air Force Base Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein.

Flight Complications Linked to SADC Arrangements

However, complications surrounding the flight chartered for their return have thrown schedules into disarray. The flight, which was arranged by SADC, faced unexpected delays due to contractual and technical issues. As a result, the original travel itinerary had to be revised at the last minute.

Speaking to the media in Bloemfontein, Defence Minister Angie Motshekga explained the situation but was unable to provide a confirmed timeline for the troops’ arrival.

“We are still trying to resolve the flight issues with our regional partners,” said Motshekga. “At this stage, we cannot confirm whether the soldiers will land by Friday evening or Saturday morning. Our teams are working tirelessly to sort out the delays and ensure their safe return.”

The Department of Defence has yet to provide full details on the nature of the contractual disputes but confirmed that alternate arrangements are being pursued to expedite the return of the troops as soon as possible.

At Air Force Base Bloemspruit, anticipation turned to disappointment as families who had gathered to welcome home their loved ones were informed of the delay. Many had traveled from different provinces, hoping to reunite with the soldiers who have been away for nearly six months in a high-risk environment.

Some expressed frustration but remained hopeful that the flight issues would be resolved quickly.

“We just want them home safely,” said one family member. “We understand that things can go wrong, but it’s hard when you’ve waited so long and then you’re told there’s a delay.”

South African troops have been playing a crucial role in the SADC-led military mission in the DRC. Goma, located in the North Kivu province, has long been the epicenter of instability in the region. Armed groups, including the M23 rebel movement, have clashed frequently with government forces and international peacekeepers.

The SANDF contingent in the DRC was deployed as part of regional efforts to enforce peace, protect civilians, and assist in humanitarian operations. Despite facing difficult terrain and complex security threats, the troops are said to have carried out their mission with professionalism and resilience.

According to defence officials, this rotation marks the beginning of a phased withdrawal and troop replacement process that will continue over the coming months. The delays in this flight are not expected to affect the overall strategy, though future deployments may be reviewed to avoid similar logistical setbacks.

Military repatriations—especially across international borders—are complex operations that rely on multi-agency coordination, airlift logistics, and legal clearances. In this case, the flight delay underscores the importance of robust pre-planning when troops are operating under regional coalitions like SADC.

Aviation experts note that delays in military flights can result from aircraft availability, airspace permissions, customs procedures, or unresolved contractual obligations with private charter companies.

Government sources indicated that efforts are underway to either resolve the current charter agreement or secure a backup flight from an alternative provider.

While logistical and contractual problems have grounded the scheduled flight, the sentiment among both government officials and families remains focused on the safe return of the SANDF troops. Their presence in the DRC has not gone unnoticed, and their contribution to regional peace and stability has been widely commended.

Minister Motshekga reassured the public that communication will be maintained as new developments unfold.

“These troops have served the country with distinction. We are doing everything we can to bring them home safely and without further delay,” she said.

As South Africa awaits the return of its soldiers, the delayed flight serves as a reminder of the many moving parts behind military operations abroad. Despite the unexpected hiccup, national pride in the SANDF’s mission remains strong, and their arrival—whenever it happens—will be met with open arms.

 Source- EWN