Regional airline Airlink has announced the temporary suspension of all flights between Johannesburg and Maseru, following concerns over safety equipment at Moshoeshoe I International Airport in Lesotho.
According to a statement released by Airlink on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, the suspension comes after it was discovered that the airport’s fire and rescue services were not fully operational, a violation of international civil aviation safety standards.
“Airlink regrets to announce the suspension of its daily flights between Johannesburg and Maseru due to the lack of serviceable fire and rescue equipment at Moshoeshoe I International Airport,” the airline confirmed.
🔍 Why the Flights Were Suspended
Moshoeshoe I International Airport, located just outside Maseru, failed to meet the minimum safety compliance required to accommodate scheduled commercial flights. Fire and rescue readiness is a non-negotiable requirement for all airports handling passenger aircraft under international aviation regulations.
Airlink stated that services will only resume once Lesotho’s airport authorities have rectified the issue and the airport is declared compliant.
✈️ Affected Airlink Flights
The suspension impacts the following daily flights between OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) and Moshoeshoe I International Airport (Maseru):
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Flight 4Z 050: Johannesburg (06:25) → Maseru (07:25)
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Flight 4Z 051: Maseru (07:55) → Johannesburg (09:00)
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Flight 4Z 052: Johannesburg (09:45) → Maseru (10:45)
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Flight 4Z 053: Maseru (11:15) → Johannesburg (12:20)
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Flight 4Z 062: Johannesburg (15:00) → Maseru (16:00)
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Flight 4Z 063: Maseru (16:25) → Johannesburg (17:30)
🧭 What Passengers Should Do
Airlink has advised all passengers to confirm their flight status with the airline or through their travel agents before heading to the airport. Customers affected by the suspension may be eligible for refunds or rebooking once the route reopens.
Travellers are encouraged to stay updated via:
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Airlink’s official website: flyairlink.com
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Customer support or travel agency notifications
📰 Background: Why It Matters
The Johannesburg–Maseru route is one of the key regional links between South Africa and Lesotho, serving business travellers, government officials, and cross-border families. The temporary halt has caused significant travel disruptions, particularly for those commuting between the two capitals for work and trade.
Airlink’s decision underscores the importance of safety compliance in aviation operations, ensuring that no flights operate without proper emergency and rescue infrastructure in place.