Cape Town’s long-anticipated second international airport has officially cleared one of its biggest hurdles yet - regulatory green approval.
The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning granted Environmental Authorisation (EA) for the expansion of Cape Winelands Airport earlier this week, paving the way for the construction of an R8 billion next-generation aviation, logistics, and tourism hub just northeast of Durbanville.
READ: New international airline flying to South Africa?
“The granting of Environmental Authorisation is an important validation of the extensive work and consultation that has gone into ensuring this project meets the highest environmental and community standards,” said Deon Cloete, Managing Director, Cape Winelands Airport. “We are mighty pleased with this positive outcome and grateful for all the support and encouragement received over the years. This is truly a milestone made possible with the support of our stakeholders, partners and the community”.
The approval follows more than two years of environmental studies, four rounds of public participation, and over 40 specialist assessments, ensuring the project meets national sustainability and community standards.
Growthpoint backing
Earlier this month, the Cape Winelands Airport also announced a landmark partnership with Growthpoint Properties, the co-owner of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, which will see the leading real estate group co-develop and manage the airport’s commercial, logistics, and hospitality precincts. The collaboration is expected to bring world-class property investment expertise to the project, positioning the new airport as a cornerstone of sustainable regional growth.
What’s next for the expansion?
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026. However, the next phase will involve the developers refining detailed development and implementation plans as required by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP) before construction commences. The expanded airport will feature a new 3.5 km runway, boutique terminal, logistics and hospitality precincts, and aims to be among the greenest airports in the world, powered largely by renewable energy and built around carbon-neutral design principles.
ICYMI: Cape Town International crowned #1 airport in the world
Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok!