Cape Town Airport unveils US$530M expansion with new runway, terminal upgrades

SOUTH AFRICA – Cape Town International Airport is set for a transformative R10.143 billion (US$530 million) development programme designed to dramatically increase capacity, improve operational efficiency, and support tourism growth in the Western Cape.

The phased upgrades form part of Airports Company South Africa’s wider R21.7 billion (US$1.14 billion) investment across its national airport network, positioning Cape Town for sustained passenger expansion.

A New Runway Takes Flight

The centrepiece of the development is a new R6.39 billion (US$335 million) main runway, realigned 11.5 degrees east to optimise air traffic flow and free up valuable space for terminal expansion.

The 3,500-metre runway will feature rapid exit and partial parallel taxiways to reduce aircraft turnaround times and improve scheduling flexibility for airlines.

Fully Code F compliant, it will accommodate next-generation aircraft, ensuring Cape Town remains accessible to the world’s largest passenger jets as fleets modernize.

Terminal Expansions Transform Passenger Experience

Complementing the runway are major terminal upgrades.

The domestic terminal expansion, scheduled to begin in April 2027 pending approvals, represents a R2.89 billion (US$151 million) investment in new arrivals and departures capacity, complete with additional contact gates, airbridges, and expanded apron space.

International upgrades valued at R863 million (US$45 million) will deliver more apron stands, improved immigration processing, and enhanced commercial and lounge facilities.

Passenger comfort takes center stage in the designs, with expanded circulation areas, additional security screening lanes, improved baggage reclaim systems, and dedicated family and prayer spaces.

Modernized retail and dining areas will feature abundant natural light and intuitive wayfinding to improve passenger flow throughout the terminals.

Strategic Gateway for Tourism and Trade

Thabo Phateng, acting regional general manager at CTIA, emphasized the project’s strategic importance: “These planned developments represent a significant step in strengthening Cape Town International Airport’s role as a critical economic gateway for the Western Cape and South Africa.”

“By expanding capacity and enhancing operational resilience, we are positioning the airport to support sustained passenger growth, tourism expansion, trade facilitation and long-term regional economic development,” he added.

Phased Construction Minimizes Disruption

Acsa has committed to carefully phased construction to minimize disruption to passengers and airline operations throughout the multi-year programme.

Close coordination with airlines, commercial partners, and regulatory authorities will ensure that the airport remains fully functional even as transformation proceeds.

For travelers, the short-term patience will reward with a world-class facility befitting one of Africa’s most beloved destinations.

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