Cape Winelands Airport's R10 billion development enters design phase
Cape Winelands Airport is strategically positioned to serve as an alternate airport for reserve fuel planning for airlines flying into Cape Town.
Image: Supplied
Cape Winelands Airport has appointed leading architectural firm Boogertman + Partners as lead designers for its R10 billion development, marking a key shift from planning to delivery.
The firm will oversee the architectural vision and design integration of the airport, working alongside Berlin-based airport development specialist amd.sigma.
The site, near Durbanville, currently operates as a general aviation and flight training facility but is set to be transformed into a full-scale airport city precinct.
The development is expected to inject between R8 billion and R10 billion into the economy and support about 35,000 direct and indirect jobs, rising to more than 100,000 over its first 20 years.
The appointment forms part of a broader rollout of strategic partnerships behind the project, including property group Growthpoint Properties and construction firm WBHO Construction, positioning the airport as a next-generation aviation, logistics and commercial hub.
Construction is expected to roll out in phases, beginning with runway infrastructure before expanding to a boutique terminal, cargo facilities and a broader commercial precinct.
The airport is expected to complement existing infrastructure and ease long-term pressure on aviation capacity in the region, while anchoring growth along Cape Town’s northern corridor.
Nicholas Ferguson, managing director of RSA Aero, said the appointment reflects the scale of the project.
“Boogertman + Partners’ track record of award-winning, contextually responsive architecture and their ability to connect infrastructure with human experience makes them the ideal partner in a landmark project of this scale,” he said.
André Wright, director at Boogertman + Partners, said the airport would establish a new gateway to the region.
“We are delighted to design Cape Winelands Airport, which will establish a new gateway to the Cape Winelands region.”
The architectural concept draws on the surrounding landscape, with a sculptural glass and steel terminal designed to rise organically from the terrain, reflecting the winelands and Swartland region.
Wessel van Dyk, a director at the firm and the project’s creative lead, said the design would emphasise a strong sense of place while targeting high environmental standards.
“We plan to target the highest environmental standards and ratings,” he said.
The project has been positioned as a potential “greenest airport in the world”, with plans to incorporate renewable energy and water reuse systems.
Adam Symalla, managing director of amd.sigma, said the development combines global expertise with local identity.
“Cape Winelands Airport represents a next-generation regional gateway where efficiency meets sense of place, and functionality enhances the overall journey,” he said.
The development framework allows for phased expansion and adaptation to future mobility trends.
Cape Winelands Airport, formerly Fisantekraal Airfield, is located about 13km northeast of Durbanville. Originally established in 1943 as a South African Air Force base, it is expected to evolve into a modern regional gateway.
The project is expected to reshape the region’s aviation and economic landscape, positioning Cape Winelands Airport as a major new gateway for the Western Cape.