Multi-billion rand airport project in Vaal gains altitude

Plans to develop a new aerotropolis in Gauteng’s Vaal region are marching along.

Vaal Aerozone is spearheading Vaal Aerotropolis, a proposed smart city anchored by a new international airport, agricultural hubs, a solar farm, retail spaces and other facilities. It has been three years since Citibank SA pledged R1.38 billion towards the development of the project’s first phase.

VAAL AEROTROPOLIS DEVELOPMENT GETS OFF THE GROUND

As reported by Daily Investor, the project is officially seeking environmental authorisation for the project’s first phase.

Assuming that everything goes according to plan, the developers will then establish the core airport infrastructure.

This infrastructure notably includes a 4.2 km runway, one that’s designed for Code F aircraft and two rapid-exit taxiways.

Additionally, it will feature both a passenger terminal and a cargo terminal. The former is projected to have an initial annual capacity of 7.2 million people, while the latter will handle 150 000 tonnes of freight per year.

The first phase is slated for construction from 2029 to 2031. If all stays on track, then Vaal Aerozone will begin operations in 2032.

PROJECT DETAILS

Ultimately, the aerotropolis – situated nine kilometres west of the N1 highway and Vanderbijlpark – is expected to span parts of 13 farms.

Vaal Aerozone expounded on their vision for the ambitious project:

The project will also include Vaal Airport City, one of the first purpose-built aviation cities in Africa, with a minimum 4-star green rating and facilities for offices, retail, hospitality, a minimum 4-star rated hotel, medical facilities, including clinics and hospitals, and leisure.

An agri-zone will ensure an integrated perishable supply chain, featuring a high-tech agricultural cluster with climate-controlled greenhouses, packhouses, a tissue culture lab, and Africa’s first air platform for live animal exports.

Per the Sedibeng District Municipality, the project will cost an estimated R22.6 billion. Of this amount, R12.2 billion will go towards developing the new international airport.

There’s also an opportunity for much-needed employment, as constructing the aerotropolis could generate at least 12 000 jobs, as well as lead to the creation of 6 000 permanent jobs when it’s up and running.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?

The deadline for the public participation process, which involves forwarding written comments to the environmental assessment practitioner, EMS Africa, is earmarked for 2 December 2026.

What do you think of this project’s progress? Will the aerotropolis fly or flounder? Share your thoughts and remarks in the comments section below.