A R2 billion upgrade of the Cape Town International Airport will officially be launched by the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) next week after presenting full details of the project to the South African media today.

The facility is the second-largest airport in South Africa (after OR Tambo International Airport) and the third-largest and third-busiest airport in Africa handling between 10-18 International Flights a day from about 16 international airlines.

Project Manager Bharat Bhikha says the airport can now accommodate 14-million passengers per year, an increase of 6-million. Construction began about two years ago. The new 110 square metre facility is a transparent structure made of glass and steel that allows airport users to have a view of the scenery that Cape Town is famous for.

ACSA management has promised airport patrons faster check-ins, improved security for the luggage and consolidated departure area for domestic and international flights. Airport staff are also undergoing dry runs for a smoother operation when the new terminals begin work next week.

Cape Town International is touted to get even busier after trumping out Cairo as the continent’s main tourist destination. The June FIFA 2010 World Cup will also add to the airports traffic.