A strategic move for the region
Located just a few kilometres northeast of Durbanville and approximately 25 kilometres from Cape Town International Airport, the Cape Winelands Airport has historically served general aviation traffic since its establishment in 1943. The decision to expand this facility stems from its strategic location, offering direct access to the heart of the Winelands, including key areas like Drakenstein, Paarl, and Stellenbosch. This proximity positions the airport as a vital asset for promoting tourism and economic growth in the region.​

Deon Cloete, Managing Director of CWA, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "We are thrilled to introduce our airport expansion to the Cape Winelands region. This facility represents a commitment to providing world-class transportation options, promoting tourism, and stimulating economic growth in our beautiful region." ​

Comprehensive development plans
The expansion encompasses extensive upgrades to the existing infrastructure to accommodate both domestic and international flights.
Key developments include:

• Construction of a new main landing strip measuring 3.5 kilometres, capable of handling wide-body aircraft. This upgrade is essential for the airport's capacity to process an estimated 1.7 million passengers annually upon completion, with projections reaching five million by 2050. ​
• Development of a "boutique" terminal equipped with the latest technology for check-in, baggage handling, and security. The terminal's design will reflect the region's wine culture, incorporating vineyards into the precinct's landscape to immerse visitors in the Winelands experience from the moment they arrive. ​
• The airport precinct will feature a public plaza, a luxury hotel, conference centers, a wine-tasting experience, and an outdoor amphitheatre accommodating up to 5,000 people. Plans also include private hangars and an aviation museum, all set within a park-like environment. ​

Sustainability initiatives
In line with global trends towards sustainability, the Cape Winelands Airport aims to be self-sufficient in water and electricity. The development plans include the use of solar power and biogas derived from chicken manure to meet the airport's energy needs.​ A state-of-the-art water recycling system will be implemented to conserve and purify water, alongside composting initiatives to reduce environmental impact. ​

Economic and tourism implications
The expansion of CWA is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for economic revitalization in the Cape Winelands region. Alderman James Vos, City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, remarked, "The Cape Winelands Airport is more than just a construction project; it is a launchpad of economic revitalization. It promises to create jobs, support local business, and enhance our city’s competitive edge." ​By providing a closer 'planning alternate' airport for airlines, CWA offers operational efficiencies that can lead to cost savings and improved scheduling. This proximity reduces the additional reserve fuel requirements for flights inbound to Cape Town, making the region more attractive to both airlines and travellers.

Projected growth and future prospects
The phased development plan projects an initial handling capacity of 1.7 million passengers per annum, with expectations to reach:​

• 2 million travellers by 2030​,
• 3.8 million by 2040, and
• 5 million by 2050, including 2 million international passengers and 3 million domestic travellers. ​

This growth trajectory underscores the airport's potential to significantly boost tourism, providing travellers with direct access to the Winelands' offerings, from wine tours to cultural festivals. The improved connectivity is expected to attract a diverse range of tourists, further solidifying the Cape Winelands' status as a premier destination.​