Construction of the Cape Winelands Airport is expected to begin later this year, with a timeline of 18 to 24 months for completion, ultimately culminating in the final commissioning by 2028, according to the Cape Argus.
The R7 billion project will feature a 3.5km runway, a terminal building, retail outlets, an aircraft hangar, an adjacent hotel, and vineyards incorporated into the landscape to reflect the region’s iconic wine culture.
In an exclusive interview on Monday, Deon Cloete, managing director of Cape Winelands Airport, shared details of the expansion plans, which include the construction of a 3.5km runway, parking bays for aircraft and taxis, and a boutique terminal.
The airport is situated between Paarl and Bellville, at the site of an old and neglected South African airforce base. It was purchased by Cape Winelands Aero in late 2020, supported by a consortium of private investors, including Rob Hersov.
The airport project is seen as a key driver of economic revitalization for the region, expected to create 58,561 job opportunities between 2027 and 2050, generating R7.7 billion in economic value.
By 2028, the Northern District will have its first airspace for both domestic and international travel, projected to serve 1.7 million passengers.
Cloete said that the plans are now transitioning from the conceptual phase to physical construction, with detailed maps and budgets in place.
“We hope to begin construction toward the end of this year,” Cloete said. “It’s an estimated 18–24-month construction program, taking us to early 2028 for full and final commissioning.”
He further explained that the first phase would focus on aviation-related infrastructure, including the realignment of an existing runway to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the A380.
“We will build all airside-related infrastructure, including rapid exit taxiways, aircraft parking bays, and aircraft storage facilities called hangars,” Cloete said.
A boutique terminal will be built with modern amenities to enhance the travel experience. “Our plans include efficient check-in counters, spacious waiting lounges, high-quality restaurants, boutique shopping outlets, and cargo handling facilities,” Cloete added.
“We’ll also have fuel storage facilities and other related infrastructure.”
Phase one also includes plans for a hotel and warehousing, though these developments will depend on demand.
Cloete confirmed that the airport has already secured external funding from various sources and continues its funding drive.
The consortium plans to submit its final impact report to authorities by the end of the first quarter of this year. To date, three public participation processes have been conducted, with a fourth round scheduled for later this month.
