Record-breaking 11.1 million travellers boost Western Cape tourism in 2025

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape has welcomed new air access figures confirming that 2025 was a record-breaking year for tourism, air connectivity and economic activity in the province.

Figures released by Wesgro show that for the first time in its history, Cape Town International Airport processed more than 11.1 million two-way passengers in a single year.

International travel grew strongly, with 3.3 million two-way international passengers recorded in 2025 – a 7% increase year-on-year – while domestic travel also rose by 7% to reach 7.8 million passengers. December 2025 alone set a new festive-season record, with 1.12 million two-way domestic and international passengers moving through the airport.

The data further highlights the Western Cape’s growing share of national tourism. In December, nearly 28.5% of all international arrivals to South Africa entered through Cape Town International Airport, reinforcing the province’s position as a preferred gateway for global travellers.

Wesgro has attributed the sustained growth to long-term air route development through the Cape Town Air Access initiative, which has focused on expanding international connectivity, unlocking new markets and supporting tourism-led economic growth. The agency has also confirmed that additional international routes are planned for 2026, including Cape Town International Airport’s first-ever direct connection to South America.

Growth was not limited to Cape Town. George Airport recorded its strongest year on record, handling more than 911 000 passengers in 2025, underlining the importance of regional airports in spreading tourism benefits across the province.

According to the DA, the results reflect years of coordinated work by Wesgro, the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town, in collaboration with the Airports Company South Africa, tourism bodies and private-sector partners.

Noko Masipa, MPP, the DA’s Western Cape spokesperson on agriculture, economic development and tourism, said air access remained one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth.

“Air access is one of the most powerful tools we have to grow tourism, unlock new markets, attract investment and create jobs across the province,” Masipa said.

She added that the party was grateful to the thousands of tourism stakeholders who contribute to making the Western Cape a leading destination.

“These record-breaking figures confirm that the Western Cape remains South Africa’s most attractive and competitive tourism destination. Every additional flight route secured by Wesgro and the Provincial Government brings more visitors to our shores, supports local businesses and creates greater economic opportunities for people throughout the province,” Masipa said.

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Cape Argus