Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) has been named the winner of the Best Airport Supporting MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions/Events) category at the Africa MICE Awards 2026. The awards ceremony took place on Friday, October 2, in Mombasa, Kenya. This award comes as CTIA prepares for its busiest peak season yet, with significant growth in passenger numbers and international connectivity.
According to Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the award is a testament to the airport's efforts to support the MICE industry. Acting Regional Manager at CTIA, Malcolm Koopman, emphasized that the continued growth in connectivity reinforces the airport's role as an important economic enabler for the region. He highlighted that every new route and returning service strengthens Cape Town's connection to the world.
For the 2026/27 peak travel season, Cape Town is expected to add about 250,000 additional two-way international seats, representing a 12% increase in international capacity. The city will be served by 26 international airlines, connecting Cape Town to 33 destinations across 38 routes, with 255 international flights per week. This growth is a significant increase from the previous year.
The increase in connectivity is also reflected in new and returning services. Airlink commenced its new direct service between Cape Town and Mauritius on October 2, with its new direct service between Cape Town and Zanzibar launched on October 3. These new routes further strengthen Cape Town's regional and Indian Ocean connectivity.
Cape Town has also welcomed the return of seasonal international services from Edelweiss, Norse Atlantic, Condor, and Air France, with Virgin Atlantic set to resume services from October 14. This expansion of Cape Town's air network gives travelers more choice while strengthening the connections that support tourism, trade, investment, and economic activity across Cape Town and the Western Cape.
CTIA handled approximately 11.1 million two-way passengers in 2025, representing 7% year-on-year growth. The airport continues to work closely with all stakeholders to strengthen connectivity and support tourism, trade, and economic activity across the region. Koopman emphasized that their focus remains on safe operations and supporting a positive passenger experience as they welcome increased passenger volumes through the airport.
The award and growth in international flights demonstrate Cape Town International Airport's commitment to supporting the region's economy. The airport's continued expansion and new services are expected to contribute to economic growth across Cape Town and the Western Cape.
Key points
- Cape Town International Airport wins Best Airport Supporting MICE category at Africa MICE Awards 2026
- 12% increase in international capacity for 2026/27 peak travel season
- 26 international airlines to serve Cape Town with 255 international flights per week
