FIFA have announced they may compensate Spain and Germany fans who missed yesterday's World Cup 2010 semi-final due to airport congestion.
The Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban was reportedly 1,800 short of full capacity after an influx of VIP jets into one of Durban's airports caused five flights - carrying over 700 fans - late for the game by blocking landing space.
Runways at the King Shaka Airport were so busy that several planes had to transfer to Durban International after being unable to land.
FIFA spokesman Nicolas Maingot told reporters today that the governing body would look into the cases of those affected and could offer compensation. Airports Company South Africa commercial manager Themba Maseko further stated VIP jets will be towed if they refuse to make way for commercial airlines at Johannesburg Airport on Sunday for the final between the Netherlands and Spain.
"We are going to be more forceful. If aircraft refuse to move we will tow them away," Maseko said.
ACSA chief executive Monhla Hlahla told a local radio station that "priority had to be given to VIPs who were caught up in the situation" and added FIFA planes were allowed to land before commercial flights.
South Africa's transport minister Sibusiso Ndebele has also apologised to supporters affected and vowed to "strengthen" plans for the remainder of the tournament.
Spokesman Maingot also reacted angirly to the Italian pitch invader who disrupted the opening period of last night's clash. He described the incident as "certainly not acceptable" and declared FIFA will "tighten the controls again" ahead of the weekend showpiece.
