Sunday, July 27, 2025
Tshwane is working to restart direct passenger flights between Wonderboom National Airport in Pretoria and Cape Town, with government-backed licensing and infrastructure upgrades underway. For travellers and residents, this change promises shorter journeys and greater convenience.
For people in Tshwane and beyond, the prospect of flying directly between Pretoria and Cape Town offers time saved, fewer hassles, and renewed regional opportunity.
Official Clearance: SACAA Upgrades Airport Licence
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) reinstated Wonderboom Airport’s Category 5 aerodrome licence on August 8, 2023, restoring its eligibility to host scheduled commercial passenger services after years of non-compliance that led to downgrading in 2019 . Regulatory compliance gaps—such as runway markings, debris, lighting, and security—have since been addressed through systematic corrective measures.
Licensing Pathway: Air Service Licensing Council Review
Under the Air Service Licensing Act, 1990, the Air Service Licensing Council (ASLC)—under the Department of Transport—must approve any new domestic route application. As of mid-2025, applications to launch the Pretoria–Cape Town service are under review. However, SASAA’s return of council administration to the Department of Transport in October 2024 means the DoT now directly oversees licensing decisions.
Infrastructure Revival at Wonderboom
Tshwane’s city leadership has completed major upgrades at the airport: runway resurfacing, enhanced terminal facilities, improved lighting, security upgrades, and passenger lounges.
Historical Route & Airline Interest
In August 2015, Airlink launched thrice-daily flights between Pretoria and Cape Town using Avro RJ85 and Embraer ERJ135 aircraft. However, the service ended in May 2018 due to unprofitability, despite marketing efforts by Tshwane and joint venture with South African Airways.
Since then, the route has remained inactive but has remained a priority due to its potential for connectivity and public demand. Airlink has stated it remains open to resuming service when conditions improve.
Regional Economic Impact & Tourism Potential
Restoring this route is expected to benefit business travellers, government delegations, and tourists visiting both cities. Cape Town, as a major tourism hub, and Pretoria, as an administrative centre, generate steady demand.
Tourism stakeholders project stronger domestic travel flows between the two cities, enabling packaged travel that spans the administrative, cultural, and coastal attractions of South Africa. The relaunch aligns with national transport priorities outlined in the Department of Transport’s strategic roadmap.
Planning & Public Engagement
The Department of Transport began soliciting public comments on the route application under the Licensing Council process. Meanwhile, Tshwane officials continue to engage stakeholders in examining the business case, and assess potential airline partners to resume the route under sound financial models. The DoT has also digitised air service licence submission via email and online portals, streamlining processing and oversight
Looking Ahead: Scaling the Relaunch
If licenses are granted, airlines may initially propose 2–3 weekly flights, scaling based on demand. As domestic demand builds, the route could evolve into daily service. Transport authorities and city stakeholders are optimistic this route will eventually ease congestion at OR Tambo International Airport and provide a more localized alternative for Tshwane-based travellers.
Conclusion
In simple words: Tshwane is working with national aviation regulators to restart passenger flights between Wonderboom Airport in Pretoria and Cape Town, backed by license upgrades and infrastructure investments. The move promises stronger domestic connectivity, tourism growth, and economic vitality for the region. For local travellers and industries, it’s a welcomed shift toward better, faster, and more accessible air travel.
