Construction of Cape Winelands Airport set to boost economy by R8bn
Cape Winelands Airport is strategically positioned to serve as an alternate airport for reserve fuel planning for airlines flying into Cape Town.
Image: Supplied
After Cape Winelands Airport received its green flag and approval by the Western Cape Department of Environment and Affairs and Development Planning's for Environmental Authorisation (EA), it reached an agreement with WBHO as the contracting partner for the technical development and construction.
The airport, which is projected to open in 2028 and boost the economy by R8bn, secured a landmark partnership with Growthpoint Properties in October, and jointly they are set to deliver the province's next-generation aviation, hospitality and industrial hub.
Growthpoint Properties, which co-owns the V&A Waterfront and holds group property assets to the value of R155.8 billion across retail, office and logistics properties. Construction of Cape Winelands Airport, the former Fisantekraal airfield could begin in early 2026, with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) being approved.
The development will proceed in phases, starting with runway and safety infrastructure, followed by the terminal, cargo and industrial precincts.
The airport is targeted for commissioning by 2028 with capacity for more than five million passengers annually by 2050, with development continuing over more than two decades.
Deon Cloete, Managing Director of Cape Winelands Airport explained the process: "With the contractor now formally on board, the project advances into a crucial new phase detailed technical development and planning. These appointments will enable the team to begin developing the specific designs and engineering frameworks required to move the project toward construction readiness.
"This will also provide clearer insights into overall timelines and costs." WBHO, the technical development partner for Cape Winelands Airport, is a heavyweight in South Africa's construction sector and one of the country's largest publicly listed firms, with deep expertise in infrastructure, civil engineering, roads, and earthworks. "
Best known for delivering major infrastructure projects and technically demanding projects, WBHO has built everything from stadiums and dams to airports and highways.
Russell Adams, Director at WBHO added that WBHO was honoured to have achieved this significant milestone with the Cape Winelands Team.
"This partnership will enable the acceleration of the technical design processes and subsequent construction completion of the airport project," he said.
"A greenfield project of this scale and complexity is one WBHO is excited to be part of. Successful completion will showcase the talent and competence of South Africa's local development, investment, design and construction capacity in delivering significant economic infrastructure".
Cloete added the enhanced connectivity offered by an additional airport will further strengthen the region's competitiveness and expand tourism opportunities across the Western Cape and beyond.
"The airport's location in the Cape Winelands provides a rare opportunity to design an airport experience that reflects the character and beauty of the Winelands," he stated.
Cape Winelands Airport aims to establish a world-class aviation and logistics hub that supports economic growth, attracts new investment and enhances regional connectivity.
"With WBHO's proven track record in delivering complex infrastructure projects, the project is positioned to achieve excellence in execution. The teams' combined expertise strengthens the airport's commitment to building an efficient, future-ready and environmentally responsible aviation facility."
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