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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape welcomes the extensive work being undertaken to modernise and expand Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) as part of its five-year development programme covering 2027 to 2031. The details of the expansion were revealed in a briefing by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) to the provincial Standing Committee on Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism yesterday.

The current CTIA operation supports 11 million passengers annually and contributes an estimated R25 billion to the regional economy. ACSA indicated that current airport operations are approaching capacity, with aircraft movements currently averaging 30 per hour.

The planned infrastructure programme aims to increase this capacity to more than 40 aircraft movements per hour upon completion. The Committee noted that current challenges include runway congestion, pressure on passenger processing systems, operational constraints, reduced growth capacity, and limitations on tourism and broader economic expansion.

The briefing outlined several major projects that form part of the airport's modernisation programme. One project will focus on the expansion and enhancement of Terminal 1 through the development of a new domestic arrivals facility, expanded baggage reclaim capacity, improved processing and accessibility, and expanded passenger amenities.

There will also be an expansion of Terminal 2, including the construction of new international terminal facilities, additional boarding bridges, expanded baggage handling systems, retail and commercial expansion opportunities, and the introduction of modern passenger processing systems.

ACSA will undertake the construction of a new realigned runway, which is expected to significantly expand CTIA's airside capacity, strengthen international connectivity, and support long-term passenger and cargo growth.

The total planned investment across these projects amounts to approximately R17.4 billion. ACSA reported that R99 million has already been spent on preparatory work and that 216 jobs have been created to date, in support of the province’s Growth for Jobs strategy.

However, during the briefing, both members and ACSA raised concerns regarding the risks associated with access to Farm 544, which remains a critical component of the airport expansion programme. Particular attention was given to the presence of approximately 3,700 structures occupying the affected area and the potential impact this may have on project implementation timelines. ACSA indicated that construction is anticipated to commence in May 2027, subject to the successful resolution of land access challenges and ongoing legal proceedings involving individuals occupying the land.

The DA recognises the strategic importance of this investment, not only for the Western Cape but for South Africa's economy as a whole. The expansion of Cape Town International Airport has the potential to unlock significant economic opportunities, support tourism growth, improve international and domestic connectivity, facilitate trade, and create much-needed employment opportunities.

Issued by Noko Masipa, MPP - DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism