Cape Town Airport Terminals
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.
Cape Town International Airport is the second-busiest airport in South Africa and the main gateway to the Western Cape. Located about 20 km from downtown Cape Town, the airport serves millions of passengers every year with flights across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
The airport features a modern integrated terminal complex designed to make passenger movement efficient. Domestic and international flights operate from separate areas but are connected through a central terminal building, which houses the main check-in hall, security checkpoints, shops, and restaurants.
Because the terminals are connected through a central building, transfers between domestic and international flights are generally straightforward.
Historical Background and Development
Cape Town International Airport originally opened in 1954, replacing the older Wingfield Aerodrome and becoming the main airport serving the city.
For many years the airport operated with separate domestic and international terminals, but major renovations were carried out in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. During this project, a large Central Terminal Building was constructed to link the two sections and create a single check-in area for all passengers.
The renovation significantly improved the airport’s capacity and passenger experience by adding modern infrastructure such as a new baggage handling system capable of processing around 30,000 bags per hour, new retail areas, and improved security facilities.
Terminal Layout and Levels
Cape Town International Airport consists of three main terminal areas:
- Central Terminal Building (main check-in and services)
- International Terminal (north side)
- Domestic Terminal (south side)
All passengers check in at the central terminal before proceeding to either the domestic or international departure areas.
Main Levels
Ground Floor – Arrivals
This level contains:
- Baggage claim areas
- Customs and passport control
- Transport and meeting areas
- Restaurants, shops, and services
Currency exchange counters and transport desks are located in the arrivals hall, making it easy to arrange taxis or shuttles after landing.
Second Floor – Check-in and Security
The check-in hall includes:
- About 120 check-in desks
- Self-service kiosks
- Central security screening area
After security, passengers are directed to either the international departure gates (north) or domestic gates (south).
Third Floor – Restaurants and Viewing Areas
The upper level contains several restaurants and cafés overlooking the airside apron through large glass windows.
Traveler tip: This level offers one of the best places in the terminal for plane spotting while dining.
Fourth Floor – Lounges
Airport lounges are located on the upper level, including airline and independent lounges used by premium passengers.
Shops and Retail Areas
Cape Town International Airport offers a wide selection of retail outlets both landside (before security) and airside (after security).
Shopping Categories
Passengers can find shops selling:
- Clothing and fashion accessories
- Books and travel essentials
- Electronics and gadgets
- Souvenirs and local crafts
- Food and grocery products
- Foreign exchange services
These stores are located mainly around the departures area and central terminal corridors.
Duty Free Shopping
Duty-free shops are available in the international departures area, offering products such as:
- Perfumes and cosmetics
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Luxury goods and watches
- South African wines and gifts
Duty-free stores are located after passport control for international passengers.
South African wines and local products are popular souvenirs and often cheaper in duty-free stores than in city shops.
Restaurants, Bars and Cafés
The airport offers several well-known dining options, many located on the third-floor restaurant level overlooking the runway.
Popular Restaurants
Ocean Basket
Location: Upper restaurant level
Menu: Seafood dishes including fish, prawns, and sushi.
Mugg & Bean
Location: Departure area
Menu: Coffee, sandwiches, salads, and breakfast options.
Primi Café
Location: Terminal restaurant level
Menu: Italian dishes, pasta, and pizzas.
Wimpy
Location: Departures area
Menu: Burgers, breakfasts, and casual meals.
Spur Steak Ranch
Location: Third floor restaurant level
Menu: Steaks, burgers, ribs, and family meals.
Most restaurants operate roughly from 06:00 until late evening, depending on flight schedules.
Traveler tip: If you want a full meal before departure, the third-floor restaurant area usually offers the widest choice.
Airport Facilities and Passenger Services
Cape Town International Airport provides a wide range of passenger facilities.
Connectivity and Services
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- ATMs and currency exchange counters
- Business lounges
- Information desks
- Charging points for mobile devices
Services for Families and Reduced Mobility (PRM)
The airport offers several facilities designed to assist families and passengers with reduced mobility:
- Baby-changing rooms
- Family restrooms
- Assistance services for PRM passengers
- Wheelchair assistance available upon request
Passengers requiring special assistance are advised to inform their airline in advance.
Security and Baggage Control
Security screening is centralized in the terminal before passengers proceed to their respective domestic or international gates.
The airport also uses an automated baggage handling system capable of processing tens of thousands of bags per hour.
Early morning departures and late evening flights tend to be the busiest periods at security checkpoints.
Lost and Found
Lost items at the airport are handled by the airport’s Lost Property Office, usually located within the terminal administration area. Passengers can report lost belongings online or at airport service counters.
If the item was lost onboard an aircraft, travelers should contact the airline directly.
Check-in and Boarding Information
All passengers check in at the Central Terminal Building, which contains the main airline counters and self-service kiosks.
Typical recommended arrival times:
- Domestic flights: 1.5–2 hours before departure
- International flights: 3 hours before departure
After check-in and security screening, passengers proceed to the appropriate domestic or international departure gates.
Most Popular Flights from Cape Town Airport
| Destination | Approx. Flight Time | Airlines Operating |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg | 2 hours | South African Airways, FlySafair, Airlink |
| Durban | 2 hours | FlySafair, Airlink |
| London | 11–12 hours | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic |
| Dubai | ~9 hours | Emirates |
| Amsterdam | ~11 hours | KLM |
| Frankfurt | ~11 hours | Lufthansa |
| Johannesburg (Lanseria) | ~2 hours | FlySafair |
| Doha | ~10 hours | Qatar Airways |
These routes connect Cape Town with major domestic hubs and international gateway cities.
Flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg are among the busiest in Africa, with dozens of daily departures.