The Cape Winelands region is set to welcome an estimated R7 billion airport expansion programme marking a significant milestone in the area’s development and accessibility.
Established in 1943, Cape Winelands Airport is an integral part of the northern district of Durbanville and as one of the oldest airfields in the region, it is poised to contribute significantly to the local economy and the aviation industry.
The development plans include vineyards as part of the landscaping aesthetics with open spaces that include a plaza, a hotel, conference centre, a wine tasting experience, an outdoor amphitheatre with a 5 000 pax capacity, an aviation museum, and ample at-grade parking, all situated in a ‘park’ like environment. In the controlled airside area of the airport, a portion of the land will include a botanical garden with a diverse collection of indigenous fynbos, both locally and globally.
The airport will offer a range of contemporary amenities and services designed to enhance the travel experience. These include efficient check-in counters with advanced technology for swift processing, spacious and comfortable waiting lounges with ergonomic seating, and a diverse selection of high-quality dining establishments and boutique shopping outlets, ensuring that passengers have access to a wide array of food and retail options to suit their preferences and needs.
Cape Winelands Airport will serve as a crucial gateway to the Cape Winelands region, offering a range of domestic and international flight options and opening new routes. The airport will effectively process 2 million international tourists and 3 million domestic travelers per annum by 2050, taking the overall annual passenger traffic to the region from 10 million to 20 million passengers. Beyond job creation, the airport is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the regional economy. Increased tourism and business opportunities will contribute to the growth of local businesses and industries, especially around the logistics clusters.
The airport aims to be self-sufficient and off the grid for water and electricity as far as possible. Through a commitment to sustainability and innovation, it will harness renewable energy sources, such as solar and chicken manure biogas power, to power its facilities and operations. This shift towards self-sufficiency will not only reduce the carbon footprint but will also ensure a reliable and uninterrupted energy supply, even in adverse conditions. The airport will implement state-of-the-art water recycling systems, able to conserve and purify water for various airport needs. Additionally, its waste management practices will prioritise recycling and composting, further reducing its environmental impact.
