Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has reported a significant recovery in its 2024 performance, with CEO Mpumi Mpofu hailing the results as proof of the company’s long-term growth trajectory.
ACSA performance on the upswing, Mpofu declares
Speaking at a press briefing in Cape Town today, Mpofu revealed that passenger traffic had recovered to 87% of pre-pandemic levels, with 27.2 million passengers travelling through ACSA’s network in 2024.
The performance report also highlighted a strong December 2024, with 3.55 million passengers recorded, surpassing the forecast of 3.42 million.
Aircraft movements similarly showed positive trends, with an 88% year-to-date recovery. Despite this progress, the total movements of 45,675 for 2024 fell 13% short of the projected 52,498.
On-time performance, a critical measure of operational efficiency, dipped from a target of 88.5% to 82.07%.
Mpofu attributed the recovery to strategic measures, including the implementation of new operational efficiencies and stakeholder cooperation.
“We are committed to facilitating seamless travel as air traffic reaches new heights. The growth seen across our network is a testament to our resilience and long-term planning,” she added.
Cape Town International Airport boasts consistent growth
Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) continues to solidify its reputation as one of the world’s top transit hubs.
The airport recorded a year-on-year passenger growth of 22%, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Mpofu described CTIA as a standout performer in the ACSA network, commending its ability to consistently attract international and domestic travellers.
CTIA’s accolades include its ranking as one of the best airports globally in the Airports Council International (ACI) rankings.
Despite these achievements, the airport faced challenges, including a power outage last week caused by a damaged electrical cable.
ACSA confirmed that power was restored within three hours and additional backup generators were secured to prevent future disruptions.
OR Tambo International Airport, however, has faced more persistent issues, with recent jet fuel shortages stemming from a fire at the NATREF refinery earlier this month.
Although 121.1 million litres of jet fuel have been secured to meet airline needs through February 2025, the disruptions caused inconvenience to airlines and passengers.
It remains to be seen if ACSA’s recovery is a positive sign for South Africa’s aviation sector.