A new R1.6 million central terminal building at the Cape Town International Airport has been opened to the public. Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) general manger Deon Cloete says the new airport has a capacity to handle 14 million passengers per annum, up from the current eight million.

The 110 square metre facility is a transparent structure made of glass and steel, and allows airport users to have a magnificent view of the Mother City. Construction at the facility began about three years ago.

Authorities say the brand new terminal building is equipped with state of the art technology and cameras are installed in the baggage area, to prevent pilfering. Acsa also says the building will be able to handle the influx of visitors for the FIFA World Cup next year. 

Acsa’s Deirdre Hendricks warned passengers to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. “We do ask that if you are travelling in the next few days, you orientate yourself, make sure that you add an additional 30 minutes onto your travel time,” she said.

Hendricks reassured passengers they would not be left to fend for themselves. “To help people we will have additional staff on the ground, helping them find their way.”