Cape Winelands Airport (CWA) has received Environmental Authorisation (EA) from the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP), marking a key step forward in the airport’s planned development.
Set to open in 2028, CWA anticipates an initial investment of R8 billion (US$462 million) to fund the terminal buildings, a primary runway and a 450-hectare aviation precinct.
The project includes the realignment and extension of the primary runway to 3.5km. Additionally, the airport will feature a new boutique terminal building equipped with check-in counters, spacious and comfortable waiting lounges and an array of retail options. The proposal also includes the development of comprehensive airside infrastructure such as taxiways, aircraft parking stands, refuelling systems and cargo facilities.
The exterior will include parking and landscaped areas, as well as hotels and a conference centre on the estate.
“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, MD of 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 airport will now focus on developing detailed plans and implementation measures as stipulated by DEADP before construction begins. In previous reports, the airport’s timeline indicated that it would break ground at the end of 2025.
