The Western Cape Province, a region known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is set to experience a significant increase in passenger numbers with the introduction and expansion of several regional and local airlines offering flights to Cape Town. This promising development is expected to boost the region’s tourism sector and strengthen its economic ties with neighboring countries.
Proflight Zambia, a prominent airline in the region, is set to launch direct flights from Lusaka, Zambia’s bustling capital, to Cape Town starting July 1. This highly anticipated service will offer travelers two flights per week, providing newfound connectivity between the two dynamic cities.
Airlink, a popular local operator, has decided to double its capacity on the Cape Town to Mbombela route. Starting on August 7, passengers will enjoy the convenience of 12 flights per week, facilitating seamless travel between the Western Cape and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.
Air Mauritius has announced plans to increase the frequency of its Mauritius to Cape Town flights from two to three times per week, starting from November 28. This expansion of regional routes is a testament to the growing appeal of Cape Town as both a tourist destination and an essential hub for international business.
Cape Town International Airport (CTIA), the gateway to the Western Cape, has experienced a positive growth trend in its passenger statistics. In May, both the domestic and international terminals witnessed a notable year-on-year monthly growth. The domestic terminal recorded a 9% increase in passenger numbers, with over 548,000 passengers passing through its gates. Year-to-date growth (January to May) saw a 7% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
The international terminal reported an impressive 46% year-on-year growth in May, serving over 175,000 passengers. Year-to-date, the international terminal has shown robust growth, an astounding 82% increase, reflecting the expanded airline capacity and improved route connectivity compared to the same period in 2022.
The Western Cape’s air cargo sector displays a dynamic growth trajectory. In March, the region traded over 4,700 metric tonnes of cargo. Although March 2023 saw a 6% decline in cargo volumes compared to the previous year, attributed to reduced imports of pharmaceuticals, beverages, and machinery, the overall year-to-date growth remains positive at 7%. This growth encompasses a total of 14,000 tonnes, with exports accounting for 60% of the volume.
In conclusion, the Western Cape Province is poised for remarkable growth in air travel, fueled by the expansion of flights and increased connectivity with regional and local airlines. This development not only bodes well for the region’s thriving tourism sector but also serves as an indicator of the area’s growing prominence as a crucial hub for business and investment. As the province continues to attract an increasing number of visitors and strengthen its international connections, one can only marvel at the potential for further growth and development in this captivating region.
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