Cape Town International Airport, one of the most important gateways to South Africa, reached a historic milestone in December 2023. More than 317,000 international passengers travelled through the airport, setting an all-time high in the airport’s history and surpassing the previous record of 290,000 passengers in January 2020.
A Boost to the Economy
This influx of international travelers remarkably contributed to an estimated R1.9 billion (€92.4m) in direct tourism expenditure into the Western Cape economy. This record-breaking achievement helped drive economic growth and create crucial jobs across the province, proving once again the significant role tourism plays in our local economy.
The Growth Continues
Over the past decade, the airport has seen its passenger numbers nearly double, from 1.5 million in 2013 to over 2.8 million in 2023. This steady increase in passenger traffic attests to Cape Town’s growing allure as a prime travel destination.
Mark Maclean, the Regional GM – Cape Town International Airport Cluster, expressed his satisfaction with the passenger growth, noting its positive impact on tourism, trade, job creation, and the economy. He remains optimistic that the airport will continue to welcome high passenger volumes in the coming weeks, as travelers head home after their summer holidays.
Successful Marketing Efforts
James Vos, City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, lauded the impressive figures as proof of Cape Town’s robust and diverse allure as a tourist destination. It is the success of marketing efforts and strategic partnerships that have allowed Cape Town to showcase its rich variety of attractions to a global audience.
Building Connections
Through collaborative partnerships with sectors and industry bodies, Cape Town and the province have strengthened ties with key source markets worldwide. Vos emphasized his unwavering commitment to increasing the number of flights to Cape Town, with the aim of ensuring every household in the city benefits from tourism-related jobs.
In conclusion, December 2023 marked a significant milestone in the journey of Cape Town International Airport and the tourism sector of the Western Cape. The figures inspire confidence in the region’s capacity to continue attracting international travelers, contributing to economic growth and job creation. This is a testament to the charm of Cape Town, the effectiveness of strategic partnerships, and the power of targeted marketing.