For years, aircraft owners and aviation operators in the Western Cape have faced a common challenge: finding quality hangar space and dedicated aviation infrastructure in a region where demand continues to outpace supply.
Now, a major new development aims to change that.
Atlantic Aerodrome, Cape Town’s first purpose-built premium general aviation and turboprop base, is preparing to officially open its doors in September 2026, introducing a modern aviation hub designed specifically for the needs of aircraft owners, charter companies, flight schools, maintenance providers and aviation businesses.
Located in the Swartland, approximately 40 minutes from Cape Town, the facility arrives at a time when the region’s general aviation sector is experiencing significant growth, placing increasing pressure on existing airport infrastructure and available hangarage.
Rather than competing for space at larger commercial airports, operators will soon have access to a dedicated aviation environment built around efficiency, convenience and long-term operational support.
Meeting a Growing Need
General aviation continues to play a critical role in South Africa’s aviation ecosystem, supporting business travel, pilot training, emergency services, tourism, maintenance operations and private aircraft ownership.
Yet despite this growth, infrastructure has struggled to keep pace.
Atlantic Aerodrome has been developed to address this gap by providing a purpose-built home for aviation stakeholders seeking secure facilities, operational flexibility and professional support services.
Designed for general aviation, turboprop operators, light jets, charter services, Approved Maintenance Organisations (AMOs), Emergency Medical Services (EMS) operators and aviation businesses, the facility aims to create a centralised ecosystem where aircraft owners can access essential services in one location.
Flexible Hangarage Designed Around Operators
At the core of the development is a range of hangar solutions tailored to different operational requirements.
Aircraft owners seeking secure storage can access 225m² hangars measuring 15m by 15m, while larger operators have options ranging from 450m² and 900m² facilities through to expansive 1,800m² hangars suited to flight schools, charter companies and multi-aircraft operators.
Every hangar has been designed to provide secure enclosed storage, direct airside access and a professional operating environment supported by 24-hour biometric security systems.
Beyond long-term leasing options, Atlantic Aerodrome will also provide flexible FBO hangarage solutions, including short-term storage and priority turboprop positioning.
The goal is simple: ensuring aircraft owners spend less time managing logistics and more time flying.
Professional Support Beyond Storage
Atlantic Aerodrome is positioning itself as far more than a traditional airfield.
The facility has been designed as a complete turnkey aviation solution where operational support forms part of the experience.
A dedicated ground team will provide aircraft management services including refuelling, cleaning and ground handling support, ensuring aircraft are prepared and operational when owners and operators need them.
The integrated aviation ecosystem will include access to premium fuel options such as Mogas, Avgas 100LL and Jet A-1, with bulk fuel discounts and round-the-clock mobile refuelling services available.
The development will also feature certified maintenance partnerships through Approved Maintenance Organisations, planned on-site avionics support and a Flight Training Organisation offering Private Pilot Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and instrument rating training.
High-speed fibre connectivity and backup power infrastructure further support the operational needs of modern aviation businesses.
Infrastructure Built for the Future
The aerodrome’s airfield infrastructure has been designed in accordance with applicable ICAO Annex 14 and SACAA Part 139 standards.
Operations will initially be supported by a grooved asphalt Runway 02/20 measuring 884 metres, with plans to extend the runway to 1,524 metres during Phase 3 of the development.
Full LED runway lighting will support 24-hour operations, while a planned GNSS instrument approach aims to enhance accessibility and operational reliability.
The facility is targeting an ACR/PCR rating of 23/F/B/X/T.
These specifications position Atlantic Aerodrome as a future-focused aviation facility capable of supporting a broad range of aircraft and operational requirements.
More Than an Airfield
Perhaps one of the most distinctive aspects of Atlantic Aerodrome is its vision of creating a true aviation community.
At the heart of the development will be a 1,200m² two-level clubhouse overlooking both the runway and surrounding mountain scenery.
The facility will include restaurants, bars, VIP lounges, pilot amenities, event spaces and a family-friendly children’s play park, creating an environment where aviation enthusiasts, business operators and families can gather and connect.
Membership programmes spanning Social, Aviator, VIP and Corporate tiers will provide access to additional benefits and priority services.
For founder Rihan Kleyn, this community-driven approach is central to the project’s identity.
“We’re not just building another airfield,” says Kleyn.
“We’re creating a dedicated home for general aviation in the Western Cape, a place with the infrastructure, services and community that aircraft owners, operators, pilots and aviation businesses have been looking for.”
“You get secure, affordable hangarage, professional support services, and a beautiful, efficient environment where aviation becomes a genuine pleasure. No more congestion or compromised standards, this is a place where you actually look forward to spending time at your aircraft in a family-friendly environment.”
A Phased Vision for Growth
The first phase of the development is scheduled to open in September 2026 and will include the core operational infrastructure, hangars, FBO services, clubhouse and guest accommodation facilities.
Future phases will expand according to tenant demand and may include additional aviation infrastructure, helicopter and rotary-wing facilities, and the planned runway extension.
As aviation activity continues to grow across the Western Cape, Atlantic Aerodrome is positioning itself as a strategic long-term solution for operators seeking modern infrastructure, operational efficiency and a stronger aviation community.
With enquiries and memberships already open, the project signals a significant new chapter for general aviation in South Africa — one where purpose-built infrastructure, professional support and lifestyle-focused aviation experiences finally come together under one roof.
