The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) Board today announced the appointment – with immediate effect – of Mr Thabani Mthiyane to the position of Chief Executive Officer, following a rigorous and thorough recruitment process and subsequent approval by the Cabinet.

Mr Mpho Mamashela, Chairman of the entity’s Board of Directors, said that Mr Mthiyane has extensive technical and operational experience in all aspects of Air Traffic Management.

"He shares the same values and commitment to our business and industry as our Board and fully understands the needs of our stakeholders. He also has the right credentials and skills to take ATNS forward," stated Mr Mamashela.

In congratulating Mr Mthiyane on his appointment, Mr Mamashela said the Board has noted Mr Mthiyane’s dedication and commitment to his work, and most importantly, the staff’s support during his recent interim acting term.

"Our ability to stay committed, passionate and focussed as a company is what will take us into the next twenty years, as we forge new frontiers in the area of air navigation service provision and steadfastly continue to play our part in ensuring safer African Skies for all," concluded Mr Mamashela.

Mr Mthiyane is currently serving as the Civil Aviation and Navigation Services’ (CANSO) Africa Region Chairperson. His career is notable for the contributions he made in the technical, technological and operational spheres of aviation.

He holds a BEng (Hon) Mechanical Engineering (University of Pretoria), BSc Eng in Electrical Engineering (University of Natal) and a National Diploma in Electronic Engineering (Technikon Natal). He is completing his World Executive MBA through the George Washington University, Washington.

Mr Mthiyane is a registered Professional Engineer and is also a member of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE).