The Nelson Mandela Bay municipality’s plans to build an aerotropolis — anchored by a new 3,300m runway and a logistics hub next to the city’s airport — cleared the first hurdle when councillors approved a conceptual framework for the multibillion-rand project. The proposed aerotropolis involves an airport precinct that would enable international flights and improve logistics. The plan was revealed at an economic development committee meeting on Friday.
The plan also revived debate around the role of the Mandela Bay Development Agency, which has now been tasked with identifying potential partners, funders and transaction advisers for what officials describe as a catalyst for jobs, investment and long-term economic growth in the metro and surrounding districts. Earlier in 2025, Airports Company SA (ACSA) announced a R4.6bn upgrade to Gqeberha’s Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport over the next five years. This includes a terminal expansion, runway rehabilitation and parking refurbishment.
However, the metro plans to include a runway extension and logistics park within the airport precinct. In a presentation to the committee, acting trade and investment director Jeremy Dobbin said the city remained dependent on international trade, with imports and exports accounting for 78% of the metro’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024. “Locally produced vehicles and automotive components now account for more than 62% of the value of the metro’s export basket,” Dobbin said.
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“We’re increasingly reliant on the auto sector, and when things like tariffs come in, they massively impact us. “The lack of direct international flights into Nelson Mandela Bay has a less effective and affordable level of service for industry, logistics, agriculture, conventions and hospitality, and limits the attractiveness of Nelson Mandela Bay for private sector investment in these sectors, which are necessary for local economic growth. “Furthermore, international tourist traffic, attracted to Nelson Mandela Bay as the starting point to some of SA’s most prestigious tourism corridors and experiences, enters or exits the country through other airports, which reduces international visitors’ time and spending within Nelson Mandela Bay and the Eastern Cape.”
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