Cape Town Air Access, powered by Wesgro, proudly celebrates another milestone year for Cape Town International Airport, as it recorded a record-breaking 3 million two-way international passengers for the first time. This marked a 10% increase compared to 2023. This now constitutes 24 months of continued growth in international passenger numbers since January 2023.
According to statistics released by Airports Company South Africa, about 10.4 million two-way passengers passed through the airport’s terminals in 2024. This marks a significant 7% increase compared to 2023, with the number of domestic two-way passengers increasing by 6%. Air cargo volumes also recorded growth, with a double-digit increase of 27% compared to 2023 for the first 10 months of 2024, showcasing the contribution of the freight sector to aviation.
For the month of December 2024 specifically, 1 million two-way passengers were recorded at Cape Town International, reflecting a 3% year-on-year increase, and demonstrating strong seasonal travel demand.
Wrenelle Stander, Wesgro CEO and Official Spokesperson of Cape Town Air Access, said: “We are excited to see this remarkable growth in passengers at Cape Town International Airport, which will stimulate our economy and enhance our region’s competitiveness. These figures are a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the attractiveness of the Western Cape as a global destination for both business and leisure travel. We are committed to expanding connectivity to our destination – helping bring the world to Cape Town and the Western Cape.”
Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth Alderman James Vos, added “The Western Cape’s robust aviation sector plays a critical role in driving economic development. The sustained growth at Cape Town International Airport demonstrates the resilience of our economy and the value of collaboration between government and industry stakeholders. Together, we’ve ensured that our region remains competitive on the global stage.”
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Looking ahead, the airport is set to maintain these excellent results in 2025 with several developments set to further boost passenger numbers. Earlier this month flagship Dutch airline KLM increased its frequency from 7 to 10 flights per week between Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and Cape Town until March 2025.
Air France
Additionally, Air France will extend its operational season between Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Cape Town until the end of April 2025.
British Airways
British Airways will enhance its service by increasing its frequency to three daily flights between London Heathrow and Cape Town until the end of March 2025.
Norse Atlantic Airways
Norse Atlantic Airways, which launched its inaugural flight to Cape Town in 2024, will now operate flights between London Gatwick and Cape Town until the end of April 2025.
Air Botswana and Airlink
Regional connectivity will also see a significant boost, with both Air Botswana and Airlink increasing capacity on flights between Gaborone and Cape Town starting 1 April 2025. Furthermore, Air Botswana will introduce new routes from Maun and Kasane to Cape Town.
‘‘This surge in connectivity directly supports our tourism sector, which remains a cornerstone of job creation and economic development across the province. The extended operating seasons and increased flight frequencies from key markets such as Europe, the UK, and Botswana will ensure even more opportunities for travellers to experience the diverse offerings of the Western Cape,’’ said Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, Dr. Ivan Meyer. ‘‘These developments present an opportunity for sustained growth for our tourism economy, benefiting local businesses, communities, and the people of the Western Cape,” added Meyer.
‘‘This achievement would not have been possible without our Cape Town Air Access partners, Airports Company South Africa, South African Tourism, the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town and Cape Town Tourism, as well as our private sector partners, the V&A Waterfront, Investec and DHL. We thank them for their ongoing support,” concluded Stander.
