Massive airport upgrade ahead as Acsa mobilises billions
Acsa’s R21.7 billion initiative, from a new cargo terminal at OR Tambo to upgraded runways, seeks to modernise South Africa’s airports.
Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) is preparing for its largest infrastructure drive in years, committing R21.7 billion over the next 12 months to modernise and expand its airport network.
Chief Financial Officer Luzuko Mbotya said the company will raise about half of the funding, R10 billion, through long-term infrastructure debt instruments and loans secured on favourable terms.
Acsa will cover the remainder from its own reserves, strengthened by improved operating performance.
Airport upgrades coming to South Africa
Lenders now view Acsa as an attractive prospect because of its stronger financial position. The company more than doubled its profit to R1.1 billion in the year through March 2025 and built cash reserves of R5.9 billion.
Acsa will use the investment to upgrade its airport network through 2032, with one of the most ambitious projects being a R5.7 billion cargo terminal at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, scheduled for completion in 2028–29.CEO Mpumi Mpofu confirmed that preparatory work and enablement phases have already begun.
For the 2025/26 financial year, Acsa has allocated R2.3 billion to refurbishment and rehabilitation projects. The company will extend the domestic departures lounge at Cape Town International Airport, improve runways, and upgrade passenger terminals.