Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) has delivered its busiest year on record, welcoming an unprecedented 11.1 million two-way passengers in 2025 — a clear sign that the Mother City’s global appeal continues to skyrocket.
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A historic milestone for the Mother City
According to the latest figures released by Airports Company South Africa, CTIA surpassed all previous annual totals in 2025, underscoring Cape Town’s standing as both a domestic favourite and a major international destination. Domestic and international travel grew in tandem, each posting an approximate 7% increase compared with the prior year.
The airport also shattered its own monthly records in December 2025, handling 1.12 million two-way passengers, including nearly 364 000 international travellers — a 10 % year-on-year rise — and 754 000 domestic passengers, up 7 % on 2024.
What’s behind the growth?
Industry observers point to several factors behind the surge. Expanded air connectivity and a rebound in global tourism demand have played vital roles, with new and increased routes supporting traffic growth. Notably:
- International carriers boosted frequencies to Cape Town, enhancing global links.
- LATAM Airlines announced a new direct service from São Paulo beginning mid-2026 — the first nonstop South American link to the city.
- Additional frequency increases by major international airlines promise deeper connections and more travel options in the year ahead.
These developments reflect broader confidence in Cape Town’s travel and business appeal, with strong demand from long-haul and regional markets alike.
Beyond passengers: cargo and connectivity
It wasn’t just foot traffic that grew last year. Air cargo volumes showed a significant year-on-year increase of 42 % in the first ten months of 2025, further cementing the airport’s role as a logistics hub for the Western Cape.
What this means for Cape Town
Industry insiders say the record performance is good news for the city’s tourism ecosystem — from boutique hotels and vineyards to the V&A Waterfront and beyond. Continued growth at the airport supports job creation and local economic momentum, aligning with regional strategies to further expand tourism’s contribution to growth in the years ahead.
For travellers and locals alike, the new milestone at Cape Town International Airport is more than a number — it’s a sign that the Mother City’s draw, vibrancy and global connectivity are stronger than ever.
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