Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos, has called on the national government to urgently adopt an Open Skies Policy, saying it could unlock billions for South Africa’s economy and create thousands of jobs.
In a letter to Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, Vos warned that restrictive air access policies are holding the country back from reaching its full potential in tourism, trade, and investment.
“Cape Town International Airport exceeded its 2024 target by 125%, reflecting the growing demand for both business and leisure travel to our city, and underlining Cape Town’s potential as a leading aviation hub. Without comprehensive air liberalisation, however, much of this potential will remain untapped,” he said.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), opening up South Africa’s skies could generate up to 155 000 new jobs and inject more than R24 billion into the GDP annually. Vos emphasised that tourism already contributes 8.8% to the national economy and supports nearly 1.7 million jobs, but said the sector can grow further if airlines are granted greater freedom to operate.
Vos urged the state to:
• Fast-track its commitments under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
• Upgrade aviation infrastructure to expand airport capacity.
• Grant fifth freedom rights on strategic routes in phases.
• Strengthen competition rules to avoid monopolies and ensure fair pricing.
He stressed that Cape Town has been at the forefront of advocating for increased air connectivity, working with global stakeholders to attract new routes.
“Implementing an Open Skies Policy not only delivers benefits for travellers and airlines, but also aligns with our national goals of job creation, economic growth, and deeper regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area,” Vos said.
The call comes as global competition intensifies among cities vying for air routes, trade flows, and foreign direct investment, with Cape Town positioning itself as one of Africa’s leading aviation and tourism hubs.
