Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) is set for a major infrastructure overhaul worth more than R10 billion, with upgrades aimed at increasing capacity, improving aircraft operations and modernising passenger facilities, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The projects form part of Airports Company South Africa’s (ACSA) wider R21.7 billion investment programme across its national airport network, with Cape Town earmarked for some of the most significant developments.
According to Top Auto, the upgrades will centre on a realigned main runway, expanded domestic and international terminals, and several improvements designed to make passenger journeys smoother while boosting operational efficiency.
A new runway designed for future aircraft
The largest component of the upgrade is a new main runway, expected to cost around R6.4 billion.
The runway will measure 3 500 metres by 60 metres, and will be shifted 11.5 degrees eastward to improve air traffic efficiency. The repositioning will also free up space within the airport precinct for further passenger terminal development.
Additional infrastructure will include rapid exit taxiways and a partial parallel taxiway, which are intended to reduce runway occupancy and improve aircraft turnaround efficiency.
These changes are expected to improve on-time performance during busy travel periods, while giving airlines more flexibility when scheduling flights.
Once completed, the runway will be Code F compliant, allowing it to accommodate larger next-generation aircraft.
Domestic terminal expansion
Alongside the runway project, significant upgrades are planned for the domestic terminal.
The expansion is expected to cost roughly R3 billion, with approximately R2.4 billion allocated to upgrading the domestic arrivals terminal and R500 million for extending the departures area.
These developments will increase passenger processing capacity and improve movement through the terminal.
Plans include additional airbridges and aircraft contact gates, as well as expanded apron space to support more aircraft parking and movement.
International terminal improvements
The international terminal will also undergo upgrades valued at around R863 million.
Enhancements will include additional aircraft stands, improvements to immigration processing areas and expanded bussing gates. Passenger facilities such as security screening and baggage reclaim systems will also be upgraded.
New commercial and lounge areas are also planned, alongside improved amenities including family spaces, prayer facilities and upgraded bathrooms.
Focus on passenger experience
According to ACSA, the design approach for the upgrades prioritises flow and comfort.
ACSA says greater use of natural light and intuitive wayfinding will help make navigation through the airport easier, while increased contact gates are expected to reduce the need for bussing passengers to aircraft.
Airport officials say the upgrades will help strengthen Cape Town’s role as a key aviation gateway for the Western Cape.
CTIA acting regional general manager, Thabo Phateng, said the developments are intended to support long-term passenger growth while boosting tourism and trade.
‘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 said.
ACSA added that the projects are being carefully planned to ensure minimal disruptions to passengers while construction takes place.
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Picture: @Airports_ZA / X
