Cape Town International Airport is the second busiest airport in South Africa, serving the city of Cape Town and the Western Cape Province. Located in Matroosfontein, approximately 20 kilometers from the Cape Town city center, the airport has origins dating to the 1950s and underwent a major redevelopment completed in 2010 in preparation for the FIFA World Cup. CPT handles over 11 million passengers annually from a modern terminal complex that integrated the previously separate domestic and international buildings into a unified Central Terminal Building. The redesigned facility features contemporary South African architecture and improved passenger flow. Cape Town International serves as a significant base for South African Airways, FlySafair, and Airlink, with domestic service to Johannesburg being one of the busiest air routes in Africa. International services connect Cape Town directly to major European cities including London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Istanbul, as well as to Middle Eastern hubs in Dubai and Doha. The MyCiTi bus rapid transit system connects the airport to the Cape Town Civic Centre and surrounding areas. The airport operates a single primary runway with a shorter crosswind runway. Cape Town International is the gateway to one of Africa's most popular tourist destinations, welcoming visitors to Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, and the Cape Peninsula throughout the year.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Cape Town Airport to the city center?

The MyCiTi bus Route A01 runs from the airport to the Civic Centre station in downtown Cape Town in about 30 minutes for approximately ZAR 100. Ride-hailing services (Uber/Bolt) cost about ZAR 150-250 for the 20 km trip. Metered taxis are available but tend to be more expensive. There is no rail connection to the airport.

How many terminals does Cape Town Airport have?

Cape Town International Airport has one terminal building with separate domestic and international departure areas. The terminal was extensively renovated before the 2010 FIFA World Cup with a modern design featuring large glass facades and contemporary South African artwork. The domestic and international sections share a common arrivals hall.

What makes Cape Town Airport special?

CPT offers some of the most spectacular airport approach views in the world, with Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, and the Atlantic Ocean visible on clear days. The airport has been voted the best airport in Africa multiple times by Skytrax. It serves as the primary gateway to the Western Cape's wine regions, beaches, and natural attractions.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Cape Town Airport?

Yes, CPT provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal for 30 minutes, which can be extended by watching a brief advertisement. The airport also has several lounges and a rooftop terrace with views of Table Mountain. SIM card vendors are available in the arrivals hall.

Which airlines operate from Cape Town Airport?

FlySafair and South African Airways are the largest domestic carriers. Internationally, the airport is served by major carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, and British Airways. Seasonal summer service sees additional European carriers due to Cape Town's popularity as a December-February holiday destination.