Cape Town Airport records 367 000 arrivals
Cape Town International Airport recorded more than 367 000 international arrivals in January, according to Wesgro’s Cape Town Air Access update.
Image: File
Cape Town International Airport recorded more than 367 000 international passengers in January, a 9% year-on-year increase, according to the latest Route Network Update from Wesgro’s Cape Town Air Access initiative.
The figures signal a strong start to the Western Cape’s tourism sector in 2026 and reflect continued growth in international air travel to the province.
Domestic passenger numbers also grew by 6% compared with the same period last year, while George Airport recorded a 14% year-on-year increase.
Cape Town International Airport has recorded steady growth in recent years. Previous data from Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and Wesgro show the airport handled about 11.1 million two-way passengers in 2025, including roughly 3.3 million international travellers.
The airport connects Cape Town to more than 30 international destinations through more than 20 airlines, with hundreds of international flights operating weekly during peak travel seasons.
The growth in passenger numbers comes as new international connections and expanded flight frequencies are planned for Cape Town.
LATAM Airlines is expected to launch a new direct service linking Cape Town and São Paulo in Brazil from July, creating a direct connection between the Western Cape and South America.
Expanded flight frequencies from Emirates and Ethiopian Airlines are also expected to strengthen Cape Town’s international air links.
Air cargo volumes have also increased, with year-to-date air cargo trade reported to have grown by 35%. Temperature-controlled commodities such as fish, berries, meat and vegetables account for 61% of exports transported by air.
Western Cape spokesperson on agriculture, economic development and tourism Noko Masipa said expanding air access plays an important role in supporting tourism and export markets.
“The record growth in both passenger numbers and air cargo is a clear indicator that the Western Cape's Growth for Jobs strategy is delivering tangible results. By securing more direct flights, we are bringing more tourists to our shores and opening up global markets for our exports, particularly farmers,” Masipa said.
Masipa also welcomed a R21.7 billion infrastructure investment programme announced for Cape Town International Airport, aimed at upgrading and expanding facilities to support future passenger growth.