R10 Billion Lift: Cape Town International to Get New Runway, Terminal Expansion

Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) is set for a major faceliftto the tune of more than R10 billion.

The upgrades, part of the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) ‘s R21.7 billion investment programme across its network, include a new realigned main runway and the expansion of domestic and international terminal buildings.

The Runway

The most significant project is the realigned main runway, with an estimated budget of around R6.4 billion. A contractor is expected to be appointed by December.

The new runway will measure 3,500 metres by 60 metres and will be shifted 11.5 degrees eastward to improve air traffic efficiency. This shift will also unlock critical passenger terminal capacity development space within the airport precinct.

Key features:

• Rapid exit taxiways and a partial parallel taxiway to reduce runway occupancy time

• Improved aircraft turnaround efficiency

• Code F compliance, meaning it can accommodate next-generation aircraft

ACSA says these enhancements will strengthen on-time performance during peak travel periods, increase scheduling flexibility, and improve overall reliability.

The Terminals

Alongside the runway upgrades:

• Expansion of the current domestic terminal building is expected to commence in April next year

• Phased developments within the international terminal are also planned

These are subject to final regulatory approvals and procurement processes.

The Cost

Total identified capacity development projects at Cape Town International Airport: approximately R10.143 billion.

The Bottom Line

A new runway. Expanded terminals. Next-gen aircraft capability. And R10 billion to make it happen.

Cape Town International is gearing up for the futuremore flights, more passengers, more efficiency. The question is whether the upgrades will keep pace with demand.