Cape Town International Airport Accommodation

From humble beginnings, D.F. Malan Airport (Cape Town International Airport) was first opened in 1954, a year after Jan Smuts Airport (now OR Tambo International Airport) was opened. The airport was named after the then South African prime minister and initially only offered two international flights which were a direct flight to Britain and a second flight to Britain via Johannesburg. In 1993 the newly formed Airports Company South Africa took control of the countries airports and D.F. Malan Airport was renamed to the Cape Town International Airport.

Cape Town International Airport is located approximately 20 kilometres from the Cape Town city centre and has direct flights to and from South Africa's other two main cities, Johannesburg and Durban. The airport also offers flights to smaller centres in South Africa. Internationally, it has direct flights to several destinations in Africa, Asia and Europe.

Today the airport is the continents 3rd largest airport as well as being a premier tourist and VIP destination. It has established a reputation as Africa's premier international award-winning airport and consistently performs among the best airports in the world for service in its category.

The airport also offers a diversity of retail outlets which include foreign exchange services, bookstores, clothing retailers, grocery stores, souvenir outlets and duty-free in international departures. There are also a number of restaurants within the terminal building which are located on the upper level above the departures level. Cape Town International Airport is believed to be home to the largest Spur Steak Ranch on the African continent. A great feature of the airport is that the restaurant level overlooks the runways and only a glass curtain wall separates the customers from the aircraft 3 floors below.

Cape Town International Airport has come a long way since 1954!

Cape Town International Airport, located in Cape Town, Western Cape, is the third-busiest airport in Africa and serves as a major gateway to the beautiful city and its surrounding areas.

Here are five interesting things about Cape Town International Airport:

1. Award-Winning Design: The airport's terminal building, designed by the architectural firm Gawie Fagan Architects, has won several awards for its innovative design and functionality. Its distinctive roof design, inspired by the wings of an eagle, not only provides aesthetic appeal but also allows natural light to flood the interior spaces.

2. Sustainability Initiatives: Cape Town International Airport is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. It has implemented various green initiatives, such as water conservation measures, energy-efficient lighting, and waste management programs. The airport also utilizes solar energy and has installed a desalination plant to reduce its environmental impact.

3. Art and Culture: The airport showcases South African art and culture through its extensive art collection and cultural displays. Passengers can admire sculptures, paintings, and installations by local artists throughout the terminal, providing a glimpse into the country's diverse artistic heritage.

4. Convenience and Amenities: Cape Town International Airport offers a wide range of facilities and amenities to enhance the passenger experience. These include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, currency exchange services, ATMs, and car rental facilities. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal for travelers' convenience.

5. Scenic Location: One of the most striking features of Cape Town International Airport is its stunning location at the foot of Table Mountain and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Passengers arriving or departing from the airport are treated to breathtaking views of the iconic mountain and the surrounding landscapes, setting the stage for an unforgettable travel experience.

Overall, Cape Town International Airport not only serves as a vital transportation hub but also reflects the cultural richness, environmental consciousness, and natural beauty of the Western Cape region, making it a memorable gateway to the city of Cape Town.