Cape Town could soon join the ranks of cities with multiple airports, but first, the ambitious Cape Winelands Airport project is waiting for a crucial environmental decision.
The final Environmental Application Report, also called the Environmental Impact Report (EIR), was submitted in May and now the city is holding its breath for approval.
What the Environmental Decision Means
Deon Cloete, Managing Director of Cape Winelands Airport, recently shared an update on the project.
He explained that the EIR marks a major milestone after years of planning.
“After your submission, the competent authority has a timeline in which they have to make a decision — either yes, this project can proceed, or no, it can’t,” Cloete said.
He added that the expected decision could arrive around the end of October.
“That decision is very important, and we hope to get the green light for this project,” he told IOL.
A Multi-Billion Rand Investment
The Cape Winelands Airport isn’t just a small local project — it’s a significant financial undertaking.
Cloete revealed that the initial build is expected to cost between R8 billion and R10 billion, and that talks with potential funders are already underway.
“Airports are expensive because you put a lot of investment into the ground, but once you get it there, it will work for you for many years.
It is about creating it,” he explained.
Timeline for Construction
If approvals and funding come together smoothly, construction could begin soon, with a projected two-year build.
Cloete indicated that the new airport could potentially welcome its first passengers by 2028, giving Cape Town a major boost in infrastructure and travel capacity.
Cape Town’s Future Aviation Plans
With this second airport, Cape Town would follow the example of cities like Johannesburg with Lanseria International Airport, easing congestion and supporting growing demand for air travel.
For now, all eyes are on the environmental approval that will determine whether this ambitious vision becomes reality.