Nicky Oppenheimer says he is puzzled by state arms maker Denel’s sudden about-turn in support for his aviation company Fireblade’s plans for a luxury international terminal at OR Tambo airport. "They went from being extremely supportive landlords to extremely obstructive landlords," he said this week. "I have no idea why." Fireblade opened its terminal for domestic flights at the airport’s Denel precinct in 2014. But in October last year Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba rejected its application to offer on-site international customs and immigration services, essential for the facility’s commercial viability. The company has approached the courts to review Gigaba’s decision. It said the minister had told Fireblade representatives, including Oppenheimer, in January 2016 that he had signed a letter of approval for the project. This is reflected in minutes of this meeting compiled by Fireblade and forwarded to Gigaba’s office and a letter Oppenheimer sent him the following day. These...
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