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Cape Town International Airport Set for R21.7 Billion Upgrade to Transform Regional Aviation Cape Town International Airport Set for R21.7 Billion Upgrade to Transform Regional Aviation

Cape Town International Airport (CPT), South Africa’s second-busiest air hub and the primary gateway to the Western Cape, is on the cusp of a transformative R21.7 billion redevelopment. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), is part of a sweeping national infrastructure investment programme designed to expand capacity, modernise facilities, and elevate the passenger experience at the country’s leading airports [[1]](https://cbn.co.za/industry-news/transport-logistics-freight-news/cape-town-airports-set-for-billions-in-investment-to-boost-air-travel-and-tourism/).

Construction at CPT is scheduled to commence in 2026 and continue through 2029, ushering in a new era for both domestic and international travel to the region. The planned upgrades are comprehensive, targeting every aspect of the airport’s operations and infrastructure. Key features of the project include:

  • Construction of a new runway to accommodate increased air traffic and support future growth
  • Expansion of both domestic and international terminals to streamline passenger flow and reduce congestion
  • Additional aircraft contact stands to improve aircraft handling and turnaround times
  • Upgraded security systems, including the introduction of full-body scanners for enhanced safety
  • Expanded self-service and smart boarding facilities to deliver a seamless, tech-forward passenger journey

These enhancements are timely. In 2024, Cape Town International Airport processed over 10 million passengers, with cargo volumes surging by 56%. The airport’s growing importance as a regional and international hub is clear, and the planned upgrades are expected to further boost its capacity to handle rising demand .

According to James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism in the City of Cape Town, the airport’s expansion is a direct investment in the region’s economic future. “Every flight that lands here creates opportunities – from hotels and restaurants to transport and retail. Aviation is an economic engine for Cape Town,” Vos noted. The impact is already significant: in 2022, international arrivals through CPT contributed R24.3 billion to the Western Cape economy and supported more than 10,000 jobs. With the new upgrades, these figures are expected to climb even higher as the airport cements its role as a catalyst for tourism and trade.

The CPT redevelopment is part of a broader national modernisation drive. Similar large-scale upgrades are planned for OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth, and King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London. Collectively, these projects are set to reinforce South Africa’s status as a leading aviation and tourism destination on the continent .

For the Western Cape, the airport’s transformation is expected to unlock new opportunities for the travel, hospitality, and logistics sectors. Enhanced terminal facilities and smarter passenger processing will improve the visitor experience, making Cape Town even more attractive for international tourists and business travelers. The addition of a new runway and expanded aircraft stands will also support the introduction of new routes and increased flight frequencies, further integrating the region with global markets.

Industry observers note that these investments are arriving at a pivotal moment. As global travel rebounds and Africa’s tourism sector regains momentum, modern, efficient airports are essential for capturing new demand and supporting sustainable growth. The CPT project, with its focus on technology, security, and passenger comfort, is poised to set a new benchmark for airport infrastructure in Africa.

Looking ahead, the upgrades at Cape Town International Airport will not only enhance operational capacity but also create a ripple effect across the regional economy. From job creation and skills development to increased trade and tourism receipts, the benefits are expected to be far-reaching. As the airport prepares for its next chapter, stakeholders across the travel and tourism value chain are encouraged to align their strategies with the new opportunities that this world-class facility will bring.

With construction set to begin in 2026 and completion targeted for 2029, Cape Town International Airport is on track to become a flagship for African aviation—delivering a modern, efficient, and welcoming gateway that will serve the Western Cape and the continent for decades to come.