Pietermaritzburg Airport could undergo significant upgrades as part of Msunduzi Municipality’s revised Airport Master Plan.
The airport has faced a series of flight delays and diversions to Durban’s King Shaka International due to limitations in its current landing procedures and outstanding instrument flight procedures.
Nelisiwe Ngcobo, Msunduzi Municipality Acting Municipal Manager, said the Airport Master Plan formed part of a broader economic development strategy that would boost connectivity, local investment and tourism.
“Presently, the airport handles four scheduled arrivals and departures daily, alongside charter and training flights from two flight schools. Demand is steadily increasing, validating the airport’s expansion strategy," said Ngcobo.
The municipality’s research found increasing demand for flights to Cape Town and Gqeberha. It also noted growing inbound demand due to its proximity to the Midlands Meander and Drakensberg.
The city is offering airlines incentives to operate routes to the airport, including discounted landing fees and additional marketing support.
The Airport Master Plan outlines a phased development strategy, with short-, medium-, and long-term goals.
The short- to medium-term plans, which will be carried out between 2026 and 2028, include:
- Attracting a second airline to improve route diversity and affordability.
- Terminal upgrades, including expanded office and retail spaces, modernised baggage collection systems, and digital check-in enhancements.
- Development of adjacent land for commercial use, including a proposed hotel, conference centre, and retail area designed to promote an aerotropolis model.
- Apron expansion to accommodate increased aircraft traffic.
The long-term goals, to be implemented between 2030 and 2035, include:
- Runway extension to support larger aircraft, including low-cost carriers.
- Separation of general aviation from commercial operations for enhanced efficiency.
- Establishing a cargo terminal.
