Cape Town International Airport has been ranked as the best airport in Africa and the second-best globally by AirHelp, a leading online platform that assists airline passengers in claiming compensation for flight disruptions.
According to AirHelp’s 2024 rankings, Cape Town International Airport earned an impressive overall score of 8.50.
This score was derived from its exceptional performance across three key categories;
- On-Time Performance: 8.6
- Customer Opinion: 8.4
- Food and Shops: 8.5
Globally, Cape Town International Airport was outpaced only by Doha Hamad International Airport in Qatar, which claimed the top spot as the best airport in the world for 2024.
History
Cape Town International Airport was officially opened on March 30, 1954, as a replacement for the older Wingfield Aerodrome, which had become inadequate for the increasing air traffic demands of the region.
Initially named after Prime Minister D.F. Malan, the airport was designed to cater primarily to domestic flights, with limited international services.
The end of apartheid in 1994 marked a significant turning point in South Africa’s history, and Cape Town International Airport underwent substantial changes during this period.
In 1997, it was renamed to reflect a new national identity and promote inclusivity.
The management of the airport transitioned to Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), which was established to oversee several major airports across the country.
Today, Cape Town International Airport stands as one of Africa’s busiest airports, serving as a major gateway for both domestic and international flights.
It ranks as the third-largest airport on the continent, following Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport and Cairo International Airport.
Developments and major upgrades
The early 2000s marked a period of rapid growth, with passenger numbers peaking at 8.4 million in 2007-2008.
Major upgrades were initiated in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which included the construction of separate international and domestic terminals connected by a central terminal for check-ins.
This project, costing approximately R1.6 billion, significantly enhanced the airport’s capacity and facilities.
In addition to these upgrades, ongoing improvements have been made to amenities, parking, and passenger services, solidifying its status in Africa.
Terminals
Cape Town International Airport features two main terminals, namely the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal, which are connected by a central terminal building.
The Central Terminal includes a unified check-in hall equipped with 120 check-in desks and 20 self-service kiosks.
Departures are located on the upper level, while arrivals are on the lower level.
This area also houses various retail outlets and lounges, providing passengers with a range of amenities to enhance their travel experience.
The International Terminal is situated on the northern side of the airport.
It includes customs and immigration facilities, duty-free shops, and lounges for travelers.
These upgrades and facilities significantly enhance passenger experience and streamline operations at Cape Town International Airport, making it a key hub in Africa.
Amenities
Accessibility features include moving walkways, ramps, and elevators, ensuring wheelchair-friendly access to all areas.
The airport provides essential services such as ATMs, currency exchange kiosks, and a Visitor Information Centre.
Dining options are plentiful, with fast-food outlets, sit-down restaurants, and bars available, including halal choices.
Shopping enthusiasts can explore various retail outlets, including duty-free shops.
Additionally, premium lounges are available for travelers seeking comfort before their flights.
Free Wi-Fi is accessible for up to four hours, and various other services like baggage storage, pharmacies, and prayer rooms are also offered.
Awards
Cape Town International Airport was named Africa’s Leading Airport for seven consecutive years from 2016 to 2023 by the World Travel Awards, showcasing its consistent excellence in service and facilities.
In the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards, it ranked 54th globally and was recognized for having the Best Airport Staff Service in Africa, further highlighting its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Additionally, it was awarded Best Airport in Africa in the 2020 Skytrax awards, emphasizing its status as a premier travel hub on the continent.
