Plans to build a new R22.6 billion international airport in Gauteng are moving forward, with developers seeking environmental approval for the first phase of the project.
The proposed Vaal Aerotropolis will be developed across parts of 13 farms in the Emfuleni Local Municipality, approximately 9km west of Vanderbijlpark and the N1 highway.
According to BusinessTech, the development could create thousands of jobs and turn the Vaal region into a major transport and logistics hub.
A R22.6 billion development
The project is being led by Vaal Aerozone and forms part of plans for the Vaal Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which aims to attract investment and revive industrial activity.
Of the estimated R22.6 billion development cost, R12.2 billion has been allocated to the airport itself.
The project is expected to create approximately 12,000 construction jobs and 6,000 permanent positions once operational.
Developers plan to complete the aerotropolis in three phases over 60 years, incorporating an international airport, commercial facilities, agricultural infrastructure and a trade zone.
What will the airport include?
The first phase will feature a 4.2km runway capable of accommodating some of the world’s largest aircraft.
A passenger terminal is designed to handle 7.2 million travellers annually, while a separate cargo terminal will have capacity for 150,000 tonnes of freight.
The development will also include an airport city, a hotel with more than 90 rooms, office space and medical consulting facilities.
Additional plans include aircraft maintenance facilities, fuel storage, a solar farm and agricultural infrastructure supporting food production and exports.
When will construction begin?
Construction of the first phase is planned to begin in 2029 and conclude in 2031, with airport operations expected to start in 2032.
However, these dates depend on environmental approval and the project’s implementation.
Vaal Aerozone has submitted documentation for environmental assessment, with interested parties invited to provide written comments by 2 December 2026.
The feedback will contribute to the environmental scoping report submitted to the Gauteng Department of Environment.
The project follows a R1.38 billion financing pledge from Citibank South Africa in 2023.
If approved and completed, the development is intended to strengthen freight transport, attract investment and support economic activity in the Vaal Triangle.
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