After years of planning and environmental scrutiny, the Cape Winelands Airport is on the brink of breaking ground. Developers are now waiting on a decision regarding five outstanding appeals from neighbouring landowners, the last administrative hurdle before construction can start, with a late-2026 timeline in sight.
According to The South African, environmental authorisation was granted in October 2025 following an extensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which evaluated noise, safety, and ecological factors. While the green light is in place, the appeals process has temporarily slowed progress, keeping stakeholders and the local community on tenterhooks.
Appeals reflect local tension
Deon Cloete, Managing Director of the airport, acknowledged the delicate balance: “Of the 1 500-odd interested and affected parties, six decided to appeal. They want the airport but they don’t want it right there.” The appeals primarily revolve around noise concerns, proximity to residential areas like Greenville Garden City, and potential impacts on nearby poultry operations.
Some residents had suggested flight operations begin even during construction, but developers argued this would be unsafe. Cloete says the airport team has taken every objection seriously and adjusted designs throughout the EIA process to mitigate concerns.
Developer response and mitigation plans
Deidre Davids, spokesperson for RSA Aero, noted that Region 1’s Development Management recommended dismissing all five appeals. “We remain committed to responsible and sustainable development,” she said. Noise mitigation is a key part of the plan, with a dedicated noise monitoring committee to track impacts and implement further measures if needed.
Davids emphasized that the EIA process addressed each technical concern, from aviation safety to transport planning, which paved the way for the environmental approval.
On track for a 2028 opening
Despite the appeals, RSA Aero remains confident the airport will open in 2028. Once operational, Cape Winelands Airport is expected to serve as a regional hub, boosting connectivity while adhering to strict environmental and safety standards.
For the Western Cape, the new airport could transform regional aviation, easing traffic at larger hubs and creating economic opportunities for the surrounding communities. While the final ministerial ruling is pending, residents and travellers alike are watching closely, hopeful that construction will soon begin.
{Source: The South African}
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