An Open Skies Policy could unlock billions for Cape Town’s economy. So says the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos. He says they are calling on the national government to implement an Open Skies Policy. He says such a move could significantly boost the city’s economy, lower air travel costs and unlock new tourism and trade opportunities.

Vos says, ” Cape Town International Airport exceeded its 2024 passenger target by 125%, reinforcing the city’s status as a leading aviation and tourism hub.”

Open Skies Policy Could Unlock Billions for Cape Town’s Economy

Vos says a formal request has been submitted to Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, urging urgent action to liberalise the country’s airspace. He says while the policy centres on aviation, its impact goes far beyond runways and terminals. Vos says it’s about jobs, investment and economic growth for Cape Town and the country.

An Open Skies Policy removes restrictions on air routes

He says an Open Skies Policy removes restrictions on air routes, pricing, capacity and market access. This allows airlines to operate more freely and competitively. Vos adds that International experience shows that this leads to greater connectivity, increased competition and more affordable airfares. This, in turn, makes destinations more accessible for tourists and business travellers alike.

 

He added, “The demand for Cape Town as a destination is undeniable.”

The demand for Cape Town as a destination is undeniable

Vos says South Africa has already committed to aviation liberalisation through the Yamoussoukro Decision and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). However, ongoing bureaucratic and protectionist barriers are preventing these agreements from delivering their full economic benefits.

The demand for Cape Town as a destination is undeniable. Cape Town International Airport exceeded its 2024 passenger target by 125%, reinforcing the city’s status as a leading aviation and tourism hub. Yet without a fully liberalised air transport framework, the city risks missing out on further investment, visitor growth and job creation.

Calls for air transport liberalisation

Vos says, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), air transport liberalisation could generate 155,000 new jobs. This could also contribute more than R24 billion to South Africa’s GDP each year.  He says that with every 12 international arrivals supporting one job in tourism, more affordable and accessible flights directly translate into employment opportunities for residents.

To unlock these benefits, the national government is being urged to take decisive action by:

• Fast-tracking South Africa’s SAATM commitments and expanding air access across Africa
• Strengthening competition regulations to ensure fairer and more affordable air travel
• Scaling up infrastructure investment to improve capacity and efficiency at key airports
• Granting additional traffic rights to stimulate competition and improve connectivity

Vos added that ongoing engagement with international airlines and global aviation stakeholders is already underway to attract more routes and increase flight frequency.

Vos concluded, “An Open Skies Policy is essential to build on this momentum, grow the visitor economy and firmly position Cape Town as Africa’s leading gateway for tourism, trade and investment.”