Gauteng's air access initiative, originally driven by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the City of Ekurhuleni, and the Gauteng Tourism Authority, has evolved significantly. Post-COVID, the needs of these stakeholders expanded, and the partnership now includes South African Tourism (SAT), the Board of Airline Representatives South Africa (BARSA), the Airline Association of Southern Africa (AASA), ACSA, and the Gauteng Growth & Development Agency (GGDA). This expanded collaboration is focused on not only tourism but also on fostering economic development through enhanced air connectivity.
Gauteng Air Access: A Gateway for Trade and Investment
Air access plays a critical role in driving trade and investment in Gauteng. The province’s strategic location and its international and domestic connectivity position it as a key hub for economic growth, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, financial services, aerospace, and agri-food processing. The GGDA’s focus is on increasing airlift to support Gauteng’s export numbers, particularly to regions such as SADC and West Africa.
The Province's Air Access Infrastructure
Gauteng is home to O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA), one of Africa’s busiest airports, and Lanseria International Airport. Economic development initiatives have been centered around the Ekurhuleni Aerotropolis, the Gauteng Industrial Development Zone (GIDZ), and the Lanseria Airport Smart City, all of which are aligned with the Growing Gauteng Together 2030 plan.
Air Access and Economic Growth
- Facilitating Trade and Tourism
Gauteng’s air access strategy is directly linked to the province’s trade and investment goals, supporting sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, global business services, financial services, aerospace, construction, and tourism. The GGDA aims to increase airlift into key trading regions to boost exports, particularly to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and West Africa.
- Domestic Connectivity
As the sixth-largest economy in Africa, Gauteng benefits from strong domestic connections, linking ORTIA and Lanseria with Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha. This connectivity aids the movement of goods and people, contributing to economic integration within South Africa.
- Regional Markets
Gauteng’s airports provide critical links to Southern Africa, with direct flights to Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Eswatini, and Zimbabwe. Improving intra-Africa connectivity is crucial, as it is currently underdeveloped compared to global standards. The increase in cargo and passenger traffic will help demonstrate the viability of new routes and increase support from governments in key markets.
- International Markets
ORTIA offers direct flights to major European cities, including London, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam, strengthening trade and investment ties. Additional routes to Southern Europe (e.g., Air Portugal) and more connections to Asian markets such as Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong will bolster international trade. The recent launch of direct flights to Sao Paulo and the Latam route enhances connectivity to South America.
Enhancing Connectivity and Stimulating Business Growth
Air access is increasingly competitive, and funding is required to match other regions' offers to airlines. The Gauteng Air Access partners are focusing on securing funding for marketing, business incentives, and exploring untapped markets that could benefit corporates with direct flight options. Enhanced connectivity between urban and rural areas is critical for balanced regional development.
Air Access and Job Creation
- Direct Employment
The aviation sector directly employs thousands, including airline staff, airport personnel, and ground services workers. These jobs span a range of career opportunities within aviation.
- Indirect and Induced Employment
Beyond direct employment, the broader economy benefits from industries linked to aviation, such as logistics, tourism, and hospitality, which rely on the movement of goods and people.
Attracting Foreign Investment
Regions with robust air connectivity are more attractive to foreign investors. The convenience and accessibility provided by direct flights, efficient transit processes, and regular schedules make Gauteng an ideal location for international businesses. Demonstrating the demand for a route, supported by a list of corporates needing access, can be a powerful argument when pitching new routes to airlines.
Air Access and Regional Development
- Bridging Urban and Rural Gaps
Air access plays a vital role in connecting rural and urban areas, which can be a key factor in regional development. Even provincial airports like Vaal can be leveraged to attract investment and enhance local economies.
- Benefits to Trade
Improved air connectivity boosts exports by allowing Gauteng-based businesses to reach regional and international markets with greater ease. This has a direct impact on local industries and drives economic growth.
- Supply Chain Efficiency
Increased air access enhances the efficiency of imports and supply chains, particularly for manufacturing and retail sectors, where timely delivery of goods is crucial.
- Tourism and Hospitality
Enhanced connectivity attracts international tourists, benefiting the tourism and hospitality sectors. Visitors contribute to local economies by spending on accommodations, dining, and attractions.
Conclusion
Gauteng’s air access strategy is central to the province’s overall economic growth, with its potential to foster trade, investment, job creation, and tourism. The development of Industrial Development Zones (IDZs), such as the Automotive Supplier Park in Rosslyn, will be pivotal in driving Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Domestic Direct Investment (DDI). The strategic use of air access as a catalyst for business clusters and innovation hubs will play a key role in transforming Gauteng into a globally competitive economy.
Insights supplied by investSA Gauteng One-Stop-Shop, an initiative within the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA); the implementation arm of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, tasked with leading, facilitating and managing sustainable job creation and inclusive economic growth and development in the Gauteng City Region.