Cape Town Airport to Undergo R10.1 Billion Upgrade for Code F Aircraft

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed a R10.143 billion infrastructure investment to upgrade Cape Town International Airport (CTIA). The project is a key component of a wider R21.7 billion capital expenditure program by the state-owned operator across its airport network. The overhaul at CTIA will focus on realigning the main runway to accommodate larger aircraft and significantly expanding the domestic terminal facilities to meet projected passenger growth.

The investment aims to address existing capacity constraints at what ACSA describes as South Africa's fastest-growing air hub. By enhancing airfield and terminal infrastructure, the project is positioned to support regional economic development, increase tourism, and improve operational efficiency for airlines serving the Western Cape.

Project Scope and Financials

According to a media statement from Airports Company South Africa, the most significant component of the upgrade is the new realigned main runway, with an estimated cost of R6.39 billion. The new runway is specified to be 3,500 meters long and 60 meters wide. It will be realigned eastward by 11.5 degrees from its current position. This realignment is critical for achieving Aerodrome Reference Code F compliance, an ICAO standard that enables the airport to safely handle the largest category of passenger aircraft, such as the Airbus A380 and other next-generation wide-bodies.

The project also includes substantial investment in terminal infrastructure. The expansion of the Domestic Arrivals Terminal is budgeted at R2.39 billion, while the Domestic Departures Extension is estimated to cost R500 million. Additionally, R863 million has been allocated for phased developments for the International Terminal. These upgrades are designed to increase passenger processing capacity, reduce congestion, and improve the overall traveler experience.

Strategic Objectives and Regional Impact

The upgrade is a strategic move to secure CTIA's position as a primary gateway to Southern Africa. The new runway and associated taxiways, including new rapid exit and parallel taxiways, are expected to improve aircraft turnaround times and overall airfield efficiency. This enhancement addresses a key operational goal of reducing runway occupancy time and boosting on-time performance for carriers.

Thabo Phateng, Acting Regional General Manager at CTIA, emphasized the project's economic 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," Phateng stated. "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."

The investment aligns with broader industry trends focused on preparing infrastructure for future aviation demands and leveraging airports as catalysts for economic growth. The ability to handle Code F aircraft opens up new potential routes and increases the airport's attractiveness for international long-haul carriers.

Timeline and Next Steps

ACSA has outlined a preliminary timeline for the project's key phases. The appointment of a contractor for the main runway project is planned for December 2026. Following this milestone, construction on the domestic terminal expansion is anticipated to commence in April 2027. The project will be executed in phases to minimize disruption to ongoing airport operations. Further details and schedules are expected to be released as the procurement process advances. Official updates are available through the Airports Company South Africa media portal.

Why This Matters

This R10.1 billion investment signals a significant commitment to the future of aviation in South Africa. The upgrade positions Cape Town International Airport to not only recover from the downturn in global travel but to exceed pre-pandemic capacity with infrastructure capable of serving the next generation of aircraft. For airlines and passengers, this means improved efficiency, fewer delays, and the potential for new international routes connecting Cape Town directly with major global hubs.

Visit flying.flights for the latest commercial aviation news and airline industry updates. From aircraft production to supply chains, commercial aviation manufacturing news is covered at flying.flights/manufacturing.