Big Changes Coming to Lanseria International Airport

From Parkade to Cargo Hub, South Africa’s Only Private International Airport is Expanding in a Big Way

Lanseria International Airport is getting a serious glow-up, and it’s not just about looks. The privately owned airport in Gauteng is laying down long-term plans to expand its infrastructure, double passenger capacity, and cement its status as a major player in the region’s aviation scene.

And with its eyes firmly on the future, Lanseria is now positioning itself not just as a convenient alternative to OR Tambo – but as a competitor.

From 1.9 million to 18 million Passengers?

Currently the fourth-busiest airport in South Africa, Lanseria handles just under two million passengers per year. But by 2050, that number could jump to 18 million if its growth targets stay on track.

Speaking to the media, Lanseria CEO Rampa Rammopo said the airport’s mission is clear: become a leading regional hub serving the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the sub-Saharan market.

To make that happen, a sweeping infrastructure rollout is already underway – and it touches just about everything.

What’s Being Built?

A few major projects are already in progress or final stages of planning:

• A new three-storey parkade (R250 million investment) to ease long-term parking issues and add 1,000 new bays

• Terminal and fuel farm expansion, with fuel storage jumping from 1,000m³ to 6,000m³

• A modernised cargo precinct, expected to break ground in Q3 of 2025

• Upgrades to the airport’s main taxiway (Alpha Taxiway), with construction expected in 2026

• A complete hangar modernisation programme, with six refurbished so far

• Digitised processing systems, improved access control, and more operator support services

And that’s just the start. Lanseria is also considering the possibility of a second runway, which would come with a price tag of R1 to R2 billion.

Building for Business (and Convenience)

The airport is also thinking commercially. Lanseria has about 90 hectares of land available for long-term lease – and its first deal is already inked.

Aviation company Bionic Aviation has signed on to build a state-of-the-art hangar and office facility using 2,000 square metres of space, helping bring more business to the region.

And for travellers? Rammopo says Lanseria’s appeal lies in its simplicity: short walks, minimal queues, and a seamless experience between your car and the aircraft.

Covid Lessons and Cargo Ambition

The idea of a dedicated cargo hub came directly from the pandemic’s harsh lessons. When passenger numbers collapsed, the airport saw the need to diversify.

Now, Lanseria’s cargo precinct – to be rolled out in phases over 10 years – could transform the airport into a logistics powerhouse.

“We hope this project will stimulate business activity, improve logistics and market access, and ultimately drive regional economic growth,” said Rammopo.

More Than Just a Backup to OR Tambo

Lanseria has always been known as Joburg’s quieter, more accessible airport. But with these massive upgrades, it’s carving out a much bigger role for itself.

It’s no longer content being the underdog – it wants to be the main event.

Source:Business Tech 

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