Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) has earmarked R21.7 billion for the development of airport infrastructure.
The investment primarily targets refurbishments, efficiency improvements, and statutory compliance measures, with the aim of enhancing asset availability, airport safety and passenger experiences across airports.
Speaking during a media briefing on the state of the aviation sector, Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said it was Acsa’s largest capital investment programme since preparing for the 2010 World Cup.
“This will see our already world-class airports increasing the airport facilities to continue leading as Africa’s best airports and increasing our position globally. Over the next two years, Acsa plans to embark on crucial capacity expansion projects at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (Gqeberha) and George Airport, focusing on expansion of their terminal facilities.
“The terminal expansion project at George Airport is set to commence at the earliest opportunity due to the airport passenger throughput having passed its design capacity pre-Covid-19. This will be followed by Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport within the next year or two.”
Acsa will develop a new cargo terminal, Mid-field Cargo, at OR Tambo International Airport on a prioritised basis to meet demand, and will later develop the Mid-field Passenger Terminal.
“Other significant projects at OR Tambo International Airport will include extension of the busing gates, which will entail adding six new busing gates to the existing Terminal A busing terminal, along with augmenting retail, seating, and holding lounge areas,” said the minister.
Phase 2 of the project will include construction of a new mezzanine level to enhance circulation and optimise seating and holding space.
“At Cape Town International Airport, priority will be the domestic arrivals terminal reconfiguration to meet growing capacity needs. This encompasses enlarging the meet and greet area, expansion of the baggage claim area, an additional baggage carousel, expansion of the domestic departures lounge, retail spaces, and ablution facilities, as well as the addition of three new contact gates and fixed boarding bridges.”
“Secondly, the initiation and development of the realigned runway development project is anticipated within permission period,” said Chikunga.
A new hotel will be developed at King Shaka International Airport and the terminal will be expanded.
At King Phalo airport, the departure lounge will be expanded, the security check-point relocated, the ablution facilities upgraded and retail operations will be improved.
“Acsa continues to diligently review the master plans of its airports, driven by twofold objectives: to meet the current infrastructure needs while also ensuring preparedness to fulfil future demands.
“This ongoing process is crucial in strengthening the foundation for a resilient air transport system for South Africa, a cornerstone for advancing our country's economic development and growth,” Chikunga said.
In the year 2022/23, the Air Traffic and Navigation Services SOC (ATNS) invested R128 million in support of its goal of having reliable and stable air traffic management infrastructure, contributing up to 3% to the national gross domestic product.
“In ATNS’s pursuit of more essential infrastructure upgrades to ensure that the entity is future-fit to continue delivering on its national mandate, up to R155 million is required in the next financial year for investment into its Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network,” she said.
Innovations such as real-time tracking systems, data analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence streamline operations improve visibility and optimise resource allocation in the air cargo industry. As part of innovations within the sector the eAirwaybill has been introduced to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
“Embracing this digitalisation can only lead to greater transparency, cost savings and a better customer experience within this space.
“While we also embrace innovation, we are equally mindful of cyber threats. Cybersecurity is essential for maintaining the integrity, safety, and resilience of the aviation system. We are collaborating more to effectively mitigate risks and enhance cybersecurity across the sector,” said Chikunga.
“The truth of the matter is that the future of freight is digital…Therefore, a robust air cargo system is essential for global trade, speed, efficiency, connectivity, supply chain resilience, economic growth, and the timely delivery of essential goods and services”. – SAnews.gov.za
