Major South African airport could soon get a new name

Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero announced plans to rename Lanseria International Airport as part of a broader effort to align it more closely with the identity and development of South Africa’s commercial capital.

Speaking during his 2025 State of the City Address this month, Morero informed the Johannesburg City Council that the airport’s management is “contemplating renaming the facility to more closely reflect and celebrate its connection to our city.”

“The city will support this initiative, which will strengthen the airport brand and foster a stronger sense of belonging,” Morero said.

The potential name change comes as Lanseria continues its transformation into a major regional transport hub, supported by significant private and public investment.

Name change to reflect growing status

While no official new name has been announced yet, speculation is already mounting about potential names that could reflect Lanseria’s importance to Johannesburg and the region.

City officials say that renaming the airport will help it better compete on the global stage and enhance its identity as a key gateway to Gauteng and Southern Africa.

“We are growing, and our airport must grow with us – in infrastructure, in capacity, and in identity,” Mayor Morero said.

Major upgrades and future plans

Lanseria’s latest phase of development was announced in July 2024, with investors pledging to expand capacity and improve infrastructure in order to attract more regional flights and reduce pressure on OR Tambo.

The planned upgrades include:

• A new fuel depot, to safeguard operations from fuel shortages
• Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities
• Fixed-base operator (FBO) services
• Taxiway and infrastructure enhancements

The fuel depot is particularly significant following recent disruptions at other major airports, including a damaged fuel line at Cape Town International and a jet-fuel shortage at OR Tambo due to a refinery fire.

Lanseria CEO Rampa Rammopo said these developments are essential to “address current limitations” and ensure the airport remains attractive to international carriers.

Lanseria’s transformation signals a new chapter not just for the airport, but for Johannesburg’s position as a thriving aviation and business hub.

With a name change and new facilities on the horizon, the future of South Africa’s only private international airport is poised for takeoff.