Cape Town is pushing for an Open Skies Policy to unlock economic growth, attract investment and make air travel more affordable. Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, has urged Transport Minister Barbara Creecy to take action.
Why Open Skies matter
An Open Skies Policy removes restrictions on air routes, pricing and market access, allowing airlines to operate freely. Countries that have adopted this approach have seen lower airfares, increased connectivity and significant economic benefits.
South Africa is a signatory to the Yamoussoukro Decision and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM)—agreements aimed at liberalising air travel across Africa. However, protectionist policies and bureaucratic delays are still limiting progress.
Cape Town’s growing demand for air travel
Cape Town International Airport has exceeded its 2024 passenger target by 125%, proving the city’s potential as an aviation hub. But without a fully liberalised air transport framework, opportunities for investment, tourism, and job creation are being lost.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that air liberalisation in South Africa could create 155,000 jobs and contribute over R24 billion to GDP annually. More international arrivals mean more jobs in tourism, benefiting thousands of South Africans.
Key actions for National Government
Alderman Vos has outlined four urgent steps:
- Fast-track SAATM commitments – Remove air access restrictions within Africa.
- Strengthen competition regulations – Ensure fair pricing and more airline choices.
- Expand airport infrastructure – Increase capacity at key airports.
- Grant more traffic rights – Allow new airlines to operate routes to and from Cape Town.
Cape Town is actively engaging with global airlines to boost flight connections. Implementing an Open Skies Policy will strengthen the city’s role as the gateway to Africa, attracting more tourists, businesses, and investors.
