British Airways Opens R19.8 Million Lounge at Cape Town International Airport

British Airways today opened a R19.8 million lounge at Cape Town International Airport, an investment which recognises the Western Cape as one of its key destinations.

Alan Winde, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, attended the official opening this afternoon (2 February 2014).

“I am thrilled that British Airways has selected Cape Town International as the first South African airport at which they will offer travellers this world-class experience. This speaks to the confidence British Airways has in our destination. The UK is certainly one of our most strategic source markets and I would like to thank British Airways for continuing to invest in bringing business and leisure tourism to us,” said Minister Winde.

The luxury lounge, which can accommodate 148 people, is modelled on the Galleries Lounges concept at Heathrow’s Terminal 5.

The opening takes place just one month before British Airways increases its winter schedule to Cape Town from seven to 10 weekly services.

Minister Winde said direct flights provided a significant boost for tourism.

In 2012, 438 023 visitors travelled from the United Kingdom to South Africa. The Western Cape was one of the most popular destinations for UK travellers, welcoming a share of 181 886 of the total number of visitors.

“Air access is a critical factor in increasing tourism. That is why we are in the process of developing an air access strategy through which we are investigating the establishment of further direct routes between Cape Town and strategic destinations,” said Minister Winde.