ACSA Implements Infrastructure Maintenance and Capacity Expansion

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is rolling out a big plan to upgrade and expand the infrastructure at all nine of its airports. They claim focus on keeping things running smoothly, making sure passengers have a great experience, and boosting economic growth for the long haul.

ACSA's national maintenance program is focusing on the big stuff, like sewer systems, bathrooms, and fire escapes. They're also boosting safety and cleanliness in busy and important spots to make things safer and more pleasant for everyone.

At O.R. Tambo International Airport, they're giving the bathrooms a makeover in phases. This includes the men's, women's, baby-changing, and accessible restrooms. The project kicked off in December 2024 and should wrap up by December 2025. It's all about making things more comfy and clean for travellers.

Talking at a meeting with airline reps on Thursday, ACSA Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Mpumi Mpofu, noted that many of the current projects are scheduled for completion between late 2025 and 2027. She emphasised that ACSA continues to invest in infrastructure that supports the aviation sector's long-term growth and operational resilience. "This programme is a strong signal of ACSA's recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic," says Mpofu. "It reflects our return to financial sustainability and our ability to reinvest in critical infrastructure that will serve the aviation industry and the broader economy for years to come."

Major Refurbishment and Capacity Enhancement Projects

In addition to maintenance activities, ACSA is undertaking an ambitious programme of infrastructure upgrades across key operational areas designed to modernise infrastructure, improve operational resilience, and accommodate future growth. Highlights include:

• Jet Fuel Infrastructure at ORTIA: The installation of a new 20-inch jet fuel feeder line and the implementation of Jet Fuel Redundancy Phase 1 will boost reliability and supply continuity. These projects are complemented by the replacement of backup power generators at the airport to ensure uninterrupted critical operations.

• Passenger Loading Bridges (PLBs): Refurbishment and replacement projects at multiple sites, including structural repairs and upgrades to control systems and canopy covers. Key milestones are targeted for completion from November 2025 through 2026.

• Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS): A phased replacement of UPS units to strengthen energy resilience at critical touchpoints. Completion is scheduled for 2026.

• People Movers: Ongoing replacement and refurbishment of escalators and lifts to address long-standing operational inefficiencies, with several escalator installations already complete and the overall programme concluding in 2027.

• Instrument Landing and Weather Systems: Replacement of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and Automated Weather Observation Systems (AWOS), with most milestones due by the end of 2026, enhancing aviation safety and compliance.

• Terminal and Roofing Works: From HVAC upgrades and terminal roof waterproofing to replace sprinkler systems and airside enhancements, these projects contribute to a safer, more comfortable airport experience.

• Fuel Systems and Fire Infrastructure: Significant refurbishment of fuel receipt meters, hydrants, and booster pumps is underway, ensuring safety and reliability in critical systems.

ACSA is teaming up with the government, airlines, and business partners to make sure these infrastructure projects are rolled out smoothly, keeping any inconvenience to airport users to a minimum.