The Msunduzi Municipality stated that the first draft of the revised Airport Master Plan has been completed to transform Pietermaritzburg Airport into a strategic aviation hub. 

The municipality stated that this is a broader economic development strategy to boost local investment, tourism, and infrastructure growth. The municipality added that a key milestone in this revitalisation effort was the recent hosting of the Pietermaritzburg Airshow, after more than a decade, in partnership with Fuze Aviation Academy.

Nelisiwe Ngcobo, Msunduzi Municipality acting municipal manager, said that the response prompted the municipality to make this an annual event, reinforcing the city’s re-emergence on South Africa’s aviation map.

“Presently, the airport handles four scheduled arrivals and departures daily, alongside charter and training flights from two flight schools. Demand is steadily increasing, validating the airport’s expansion strategy,” Ngcobo said.

The short to medium-term Plans (2026–2028) include:

• Attracting a second airline to improve route diversity and affordability.

• Terminal upgrades include expanded office and retail spaces, modernised baggage collection systems, and digital check-in enhancements.
• Development of adjacent land for commercial use, a proposed hotel, conference centre, and retail area designed to promote an aerotropolis model.
•  Apron expansion to accommodate increased aircraft traffic.

Some of the long-term plans (2030–2035) include:

• Establishment of a cargo terminal, including an agro-cargo facility and dry port to serve surrounding industrial areas like Mkondeni.
• Runway extension to support larger aircraft, including low-cost carriers.
• Separation of general aviation (GA) from commercial operations for enhanced efficiency.

“A comprehensive study conducted by the airport has confirmed significant untapped demand, including improved connectivity for local businesses and government travellers who currently rely on distant airports like King Shaka,” Ngcobo said.

There are also plans to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) to explore extended benefits for flights to and from ACSA-managed airports. Ngcobo also outlined that jobs will be created through construction, airport operations, hospitality, and retail.

The Northern Areas Residents and Ratepayers Association (NARRA) welcomed the airport initiative, stating that it was a long-overdue development and believed it was a strong step toward restoring Pietermaritzburg.  Jimmy Naidoo, chairperson of NARRA, said a functional and well-maintained airport can significantly boost tourism, improve connectivity, and stimulate local economic growth. He said that Pietermaritzburg has the potential to be more than just a stopover, and the airport can play a key role in that transformation.

“We hope the expected timeline for completion is adhered to and that the strategy truly aligns with positioning Pietermaritzburg as a viable regional hub as outlined. 

“Most importantly, we hope this announcement is not just a promise on paper, but one that is seen through with real action, consistency, and long-term maintenance. We look forward to watching progress unfold and stand ready to support initiatives that uplift our city,” Naidoo said. 

zainul.dawood@inl.co.za

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