Cape Town, South Africa, is set to welcome a new gateway to the world, with the construction of the Cape Winelands Airport, a project estimated to cost $392 million. Slated for completion by 2027, this new airport aims to enhance South Africa’s aviation capacity by offering both local and international flights.
The Cape Winelands Airport, situated in the scenic wine region just outside Cape Town, will be the city’s second major airport after Cape Town International Airport. This new facility is privately owned by RSA Aero, a consortium of investors keen on tapping into the growing demand for air travel in South Africa. The airport will be constructed in phases, with the first phase expected to accommodate 1.1 million passengers annually.
The decision to build a second airport in Cape Town is driven by the city’s booming tourism industry and its strategic location as a gateway to Africa. Cape Town International Airport, currently the primary airport, handled approximately 10.9 million passengers in 2023, a figure that is expected to grow in the coming years. The new Cape Winelands Airport will help alleviate pressure on the existing airport, allowing more flights and improved service delivery.
“The construction of Cape Winelands Airport represents a significant milestone in the evolution of South Africa’s aviation infrastructure,” said a spokesperson for RSA Aero. “This investment will not only boost local and international connectivity but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.”
Cape Winelands Airport will cater to both local and international flights, enhancing Cape Town’s status as a premier travel destination. With an annual capacity of 1.1 million passengers in its first phase, the airport will help accommodate the projected increase in air traffic over the next decade. Future phases are planned to further expand capacity and facilities, ensuring that the airport meets the long-term needs of the region.
One of the unique aspects of Cape Winelands Airport will be its strategic location in one of South Africa’s most famous wine regions, offering travelers an opportunity to enjoy the scenic views and cultural experiences of the Cape Winelands immediately upon arrival. The airport is expected to boost tourism by providing an additional entry point to Cape Town, especially for international visitors drawn to the city’s diverse attractions, from Table Mountain to its world-renowned beaches and vineyard.
The development of Cape Winelands Airport comes at a time when South Africa’s aviation sector is experiencing steady growth. In 2023, South Africa’s airports handled over 27 million air travelers, with Cape Town International Airport accounting for nearly 40% of this total. As the nation’s second-busiest airport, Cape Town International has consistently been recognized for its efficiency and customer service, winning the “Best Airport in Africa” award multiple times.
South Africa’s air travel industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, supporting over 500,000 jobs and contributing approximately $9.4 billion to the national GDP. The addition of Cape Winelands Airport is expected to further enhance the sector’s contribution by attracting new airlines, increasing passenger traffic, and boosting tourism-related businesses.
As Cape Town prepares to open its second airport, Cape Winelands Airport, the city is poised to strengthen its position as a key aviation hub in Africa. With the capacity to handle millions of passengers and offer enhanced connectivity, the new airport will be a valuable asset to both local residents and international travelers, reflecting Cape Town’s growing status as a global city.
