Domestic passenger numbers have reportedly reached 49% of 2019 levels while international passenger traffic sits at 24% of 2019 levels, the highest monthly recovery percentage since the restart of international travel in October 2020.

The 2021 year-to-date passenger terminal recovery is 44% for domestic passengers and only 14% for international passengers, compared to 2019,

Wesgro believes these figures, especially on the international side, are expected to gain more momentum as the South African summer season approaches.

International carriers are gradually adding capacity into the Cape Town market. Lufthansa will be increasing the Frankfurt-Cape Town service to three flights per week from 24 September, and Emirates are planning to increase the Dubai-Cape Town service to a daily flight from 31 October onwards.

“We’re pleased to see the gradual uptick in air confidence and are particularly thrilled that four out of our top six tourism source markets have, in the past month, permitted the resumption of travel for fully-vaccinated tourists. With continued lobbying efforts alongside our partners for the removal of South Africa off the ‘red list’ we hope to see the UK follow suit soon. Furthermore, with the festive season fast approaching and traveller confidence increasing with the ramped up national vaccination efforts, we look forward to welcoming back friends from our neighbouring provinces to enjoy a world within one Province on offer in Cape Town and the Western Cape,” said Wesgro’s Acting CEO, Yaw Peprah.

Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Member for Economic Opportunities, Tourism and Asset Management at the City of Cape Town emphasized the City’s focus on destination marketing and creating an environment of safety:

“Together with our official Destination Marketing Organisation, Cape Town Tourism, the City is rolling out several marketing campaigns to draw in domestic and international travellers. This includes the Pocket-Friendly campaign to show that Cape Town is an affordable destination, the ‘Explore Captivating Cape Town’ local marketing campaign, the ‘Find Your Freedom’ international campaign, and branding in airports and billboards in key source markets. This is coupled with our messaging around Cape Town being a safe destination due to the uptake of the vaccine together with continued and appropriate adherence to Covid safety protocols. The City of Cape Town is proud of our contribution to Air Access and, in turn, their efforts to help us connect Cape Town with source markets around the world.”

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Source: Air-Space-Africa.com