In a landscape often clouded by turbulence, South Africa's airline industry is experiencing a resurgence.
With passenger numbers on the rise and newfound confidence in air travel, the country’s aviation sector is showing promising signs of recovery.
According to Wesgro, Cape Town International Airport has set a new milestone in 2024, welcoming three million two-way international passengers - an increase of 10% over the previous year.
Meanwhile, at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport, South Africa's busiest hub, approximately 21 million passengers are navigating its terminals annually.
The growth isn’t confined to these two giants; Durban’s King Shaka International Airport is also thriving, with over 2.8 million travellers recorded this year.
The positive momentum doesn’t stop there; significant improvements are on the horizon.
Mummy Mafojane, FCM Productive Operations Leader, discusses these improvement aimed at enhancing connections and providing seamless experiences for business travellers across the country.
Smoother business travel due to ACSA’s increased profits
A major part of this recovery can be attributed to the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa), which has notably turned a financial corner.
After suffering a staggering R2.5 billion loss in 2019/20, Acsa has emerged with a R400 million profit in 2023/24, raising hopes for more efficient airport operations. Mafojane notes that this financial turnaround could lead to improved facilities, streamlined operations, and reduced congestion at key hubs.
“A stronger Acsa may also attract more airlines, creating new regional and international routes to benefit business travellers,” she adds.
The pioneering shift in Acsa’s fortune promises to transform profits into progress for those flying across South Africa.
Lanseria Airport steadily growing
If congestion at OR Tambo is a concern for travellers, Lanseria International Airport is positioning itself as a strong alternative. Currently the fourth-busiest airport in the country, Lanseria handled nearly 2.5 million passengers during the 2022/23 year.
With ambitious plans to increase passenger traffic to 6 million by 2027 and a staggering goal of 18 million by 2050, Lanseria is set for a significant transformation.
Major investments are underway, thanks to recent ownership changes.
Plans include a world-class cargo precinct and a cutting-edge Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility, alongside upgraded operations for private and corporate jet travel.
“For frequent flyers, this means not only more options but also enhanced facilities, carving out Lanseria as a serious contender in South African aviation,” says Mafojane.
A new airport on the cards in Stellenbosch
A second major airport on the scene, the Cape Winelands Airport (CWA) is set to open by 2027, is also expected to change the travel game for business travellers in the Western Cape.
Built on the site of the current Fisantekraal Airport, the CWA will launch with a hefty R7 billion investment, featuring a 3.5km runway capable of accommodating A380s, a state-of-the-art terminal, and improved access roads.
By 2030, the CWA aims to cater to two million passengers, eventually aiming for five million by 2050.
Mafojane emphasises the potential benefits of the new airport: “A second major airport in the Western Cape could stimulate competition among airlines, resulting in better schedules and pricing.”
With an influx of talent and investment into the Western Cape, the CWA could play a pivotal role in reshaping business dynamics across South Africa.
More destinations and route expansions
In addition to new airports, an influx of regional and international flight routes is enhancing travel options for business travellers.
Air France has resumed and increased its Paris to Cape Town service, while Air Botswana now connects Gaborone with Durban’s King Shaka Airport. Proflight Zambia and FlySafair have started several routes from Cape Town to Livingstone and Windhoek, respectively.
Major airlines, including Lufthansa and British Airways, have also expanded their service to Cape Town.
Looking ahead to 2025, the excitement continues as Qantas revives its Johannesburg to Perth route and Airlink launches a fresh connection between Cape Town and Gaborone in April.
According to Mafojane, “The influx of new routes boosts connectivity, fuelling competition among airlines, a factor that could lead to lower fares and greater flexibility for business travellers.”
In a moment of optimism, South Africa’s airline industry is not just lifting off from a rocky past but is soaring towards a bright future.
With improved facilities, new airports, and enhanced connectivity, business travellers can expect a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience ahead.