Durban Aerotropolis
Anchored by King Shaka International Airport, the Durban Aerotropolis is a purpose-built airport city shaping a 50-year growth horizon for KwaZulu-Natal.
A long-horizon airport city designed to attract investment through integrated planning, access and infrastructure.
The Durban Aerotropolis combines airport-led development, coordinated land use and regional connectivity to create a favourable physical environment for business growth, industrial activity and live-work-play urban development.
Airport-led advantages with regional development momentum
King Shaka International Airport
Plentiful zoned and fully serviced land sits immediately adjacent to King Shaka International Airport.
Customs-Controlled Area
The precinct’s CCA status supports specialised import and export activity for aeronautical parts and materials.
Greater Durban
Greater Durban is South Africa’s second-largest economy and a strong base for business demand, services and labour.
Regional airport network
Multiple regional airports and aerodromes can be supported by local aeronautical and related services.
Durban Aerotropolis
Anchored by King Shaka International Airport, the Durban Aerotropolis is a purpose-built airport city structured around long-term, coordinated growth. The master plan anticipates future trends and challenges while creating a more investable and connected development environment.
Framework for the next 50 years of growth
The master plan provides a long-term development framework for KwaZulu-Natal’s premier airport precinct, supporting integrated spatial planning, multimodal transport and development certainty for future investment.
R1 trillion potential
Potential to attract investment amounting to R1 trillion over the development horizon.
32 000ha coverage
The aerotropolis covers 32 000ha, extending from Durban to Richards Bay.
750 000 long-term jobs
Projected employment potential grows from short- and medium-term opportunities into major long-term job creation.
1.5 million residents
The long-term urban model anticipates co-located live, work and play environments for a major resident population.
Accessibility, economic activity and long-term precinct quality
Accessibility
Efficient roads and highways connect the airport precinct to Greater Durban, with future metro connectivity planned in expansion scenarios.
Economic activity
Airport and SEZ-led infrastructure investment continues to create opportunities for private-sector development.
Quality of life
Retail, education, entertainment and lifestyle amenities have expanded alongside precinct growth in the northern corridor.
Property investment
Residential and commercial demand has accelerated as airport-led development reshapes Durban’s northern growth corridor.
Institutional support behind the Durban Aerotropolis
The Durban Aerotropolis is led by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government in partnership with public and private stakeholders working toward the realisation of the airport city vision.