Transport Department confirms approval of Abakan Air Cargo permit
The National Department of Transport has confirmed that it approved and issued a Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP) to Abakan Air, authorising the airline to transport general cargo, civilian helicopters, and acrobatic aeroplanes into South Africa.
According to the department, Abakan Air applied for the permit on 9 September 2025, with the FOP formally granted on 23 September 2025.
The department clarified that the application underwent all necessary regulatory and security checks before approval.
"The operator was required to provide full details of the consignor and consignee of the cargo, which were submitted and confirmed in writing by the relevant company," said department spokesperson Collen Msibi.
He added that the airline also contracted a regulated cargo agent in South Africa, as required by law, and submitted all details regarding its crew and paperwork.
"The flight plan was also duly filed with the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), and further information can be obtained directly from ATNS regarding the plan."
The Department of Transport also moved to dispel speculation surrounding the airline’s status, confirming that Abakan Air is not blacklisted in South Africa.
This is in reaction to reports that the Russian operator was blacklisted in the US for transporting Russian military equipment.
Msibi says they are not aware of such action.
"The South African government has not blacklisted the operator concerned. Furthermore, the department has no record or knowledge of any information from any other government indicating that this operator has been blacklisted," Msibi added.
The department reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all foreign operators comply with South Africa’s aviation safety and regulatory standards.
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