Friday, June 20th, 2025
South Africa has embarked on a bold transformation of national aviation infrastructure along with Tambo International Airport, which is at the forefront of a sweep modernization campaign led by the South African Airport Company (ACSA). The multi-year initiative spanning all nine airports includes upgrades to jet fuel pipelines, fire safety systems, power backups, terminal facilities and airside operations. Designed to promote safety, efficiency and future preparation, these key projects reflect South Africa's strategic commitment to deploying airports as a world-class gateway for international travel and economic growth.
ACSA will launch a revitalization drive at airports across the country to advance future aviation infrastructure
Or Tambo leads as South African airport companies announce long-term upgrades at nine airports.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has launched a sweep infrastructure activation program across all nine major airports. The initiative focuses on comprehensive renovations, maintenance and strategic capacity building designed to enhance safety, comfort and reliability of South Africa's airport network.
This upgrade is part of a sustainable effort to modernize core infrastructure elements that support daily operations and future passenger growth. These include sanitation facilities, waste management systems, fire escape routes, and updated safety protocols in major areas with high passenger traffic. The goal is to not only upgrade your physical infrastructure, but also ensure resilience and compliance with global aviation standards.
Flagship development at Tambo International Airport or Tambo International Airport
Leading this effort is Tambo International Airport (Ortia), South Africa's busiest airport, and central hub for both domestic and international flights. One of Ortia's flagship operations is the complete renovation of the cleansing facility. These upgrades are being deployed in stages to avoid confusion and maintain operational continuity.
During a stakeholder engagement session held on Thursday, June 19th, ACSA CEO Mpumi Mpofu addressed airline representatives and aviation partners, outlining the scale of the work in progress. She confirmed that some of these important projects were completed between late 2025 and 2027, and are consistent with ACSA's broader vision of operational excellence and infrastructure lifespan.
Major infrastructure projects across the network
ACSA has invested heavily in airport infrastructure upgrades across its national portfolio, beyond Beyond or Tambo. Each project is tailored to meet site-specific needs, tailoring to comprehensive safety and service delivery goals. The main and planned projects underway are:
Jet Fuel Infrastructure Upgrade in Ortia: ACSA installs a 20-inch jet fuel feeder line and implements the first phase of the jet fuel redundancy plan to ensure consistent supply and reduced downtime risk. This upgrade is important for enhancing fuel security, especially during peak operations. At the same time, replacing an outdated backup generator will enhance the independence of the airport's energy. Passenger Loading Bridge (PLB) Modernization: Multiple airports have undergone technical upgrades to Passenger Loading Bridges. These include renovations to the canopy and the installation of an improved boarding system scheduled to be completed between November 2025 and later 2026. These units provide important backup in the event of a power outage and are essential for airport functions such as air traffic control, security systems, and baggage handling. It is scheduled to be completed in 2026. People's Mover Overhaul: Escalators and lifts that play an important role in passenger movement have been replaced or completely renovated. Several escalator systems have already been modernised, and the complete programme will be expanded until 2027, with the aim of improving passenger flow reliability and efficiency. Navigation and Weather System Upgrade: ACSA overhauls the Equipment Landing System (ILS) and the Automated Weather Observation System (AWO) to enhance aviation safety and meet international compliance standards. The project is expected to close by the end of 2026. Terminal and Roof Modernization: Multiple terminals are undergoing HVAC system upgrades, including better climate control and energy-efficient solutions. Other updates include waterproofing the terminal roof, strengthening the sprinkler system, and comprehensive airside renovations to improve passenger and crew safety. Fire and Fuel System Maintenance: ACSA is performing intensive renovations of fire hydrants, fire booster pumps and fuel meters to enhance fire response preparation and fuel distribution. These systems are important for both emergency response and routine operational safety.
Collaboration with air stakeholders
To implement these infrastructure projects with minimal disruption, ACSA is actively working with a wide range of stakeholders. These include the government sector, commercial aviation partners, airlines and airport retailers. By maintaining an open channel of communications, ACSA is committed to coordinating efforts efficiently and transparently.
The deployment of this nationwide infrastructure upgrade is more than just routine maintenance, and marks a bold step to ground South Africa's aviation hub for the future. ACSA's commitment reflects not only the growing demand for air travel, but the need for modern, resilient airports that can compete on a global scale.
Long-term vision and economic impact
This revitalization programme has been one of the most important investments in South Africa's aviation sector in recent years. It highlights ACSA's strategic vision to create a future-ready airport ecosystem that supports sustainable growth, economic development and job creation.
Now, by strengthening its infrastructure, ACSA aims to attract more international airlines, increase passenger throughput and strengthen South Africa's position as a major gateway for business and tourism. The upgrade also equips the airport network to smoothly handle the growing customer volume and evolving technology demand over the next decade.
South Africa is leading the transformation of major airport infrastructure along with Tambo International Airport, which leads ACSA's ambitious upgrades to promote domestic aviation safety, capacity and future preparation.
As South Africa continues to recover from global travel disruptions, ACSA's advanced investment in infrastructure exists as a beacon of resilience, ensuring that its airports remain safe, efficient and competitive for the next few years.
