State-owned Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) says it is saddened by the passing of Major-General Jerry Coetzee, who served as the company's founding CEO from 1993 to 1998.

Under his stewardship, ATNS established itself as a professional, safety-focused and internationally respected organisation. His leadership laid the foundation for the company's enduring commitment to providing safe, efficient and reliable air navigation services – a legacy that continues to guide ATNS today.

Coetzee also played an influential role in the establishment of the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation in 1996, which helped to strengthen collaboration, innovation and advancement within the global air navigation services community.

“Major-General Jerry Coetzee was a pioneering leader whose vision, integrity and unwavering dedication helped establish ATNS as the world-class organisation it is today. His contribution to aviation, in South Africa and internationally, will remain an enduring part of our history,” says ATNS acting CEO Matome Moholola.

“ATNS management and employees extend heartfelt condolences to the Coetzee family, friends, former colleagues and the broader aviation community during this difficult time of bereavement,” he adds.

Coetzee dedicated his life to service, leadership and nation-building. His distinguished career in the South African Air Force (SAAF) spanned several decades and included service as a navigator; squadron leader; military attaché in Washington, in the US; human resources manager; and, ultimately, Inspector General of the SAAF.

Throughout his career, he was widely recognised for his commitment to professional excellence, innovation and the development of people, ATNS says.

Following his retirement from military service, Coetzee continued to serve society through education and public service. In 1993, he became CEO of the newly established ATNS and helped to shape the future of South Africa's air navigation services sector.