Cape Town International Airport breaks records ahead of IAPD Congress with boosted international connectivity
With the 30th International Association of Plastics Distributors (IAPD) Congress slated to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, delegates from around the world can anticipate an event elevated by not only its stimulating agenda but also the exceptional ease of access offered by the city’s international connectivity. Cape Town International Airport, serving as the primary gateway to the region and the second-busiest airport in South Africa, has continued to enhance its global reach, making travel simpler and more convenient for visitors attending the Congress.
Cape Town International Airport recently recorded a milestone, welcoming a record-breaking 3 million two-way international passengers in 2024. This represents a 10% increase in passenger numbers compared to the previous year, driven by boosted flight frequencies from major airlines such as KLM, Air France, and British Airways. The growth in air traffic reflects the airport’s strategic investments in expanding capacity and route offerings, which in turn reinforce the Western Cape’s standing as a competitive global destination for business and leisure alike.
For delegates flying in to attend the IAPD Congress, the airport provides robust connections to key hubs across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Direct scheduled flights operate from major cities including London, Frankfurt, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Amsterdam, and Johannesburg. Airlines such as British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines service these routes, offering a seamless and efficient travel experience. Moreover, the airport serves as a hub for non-stop flights to regional destinations like Windhoek, Lusaka, and Eswatini, thanks to recent expansions in intra-Africa air travel operated by carriers including Eswatini Air and Proflight Zambia. This bolstered regional connectivity ensures that delegates from neighbouring African countries can reach Cape Town with relative ease.
Upon arrival, attendees will find the Congress venue just a short drive from the airport, set against the stunning backdrop for which Cape Town is renowned—combining dynamic urban settings with breathtaking natural beauty. This convenient proximity enhances the overall visitor experience, enabling participants to make the most of their trip both professionally and personally.
Prospective attendees should, however, be mindful of varying visa requirements depending on nationality and plan their travel accordingly. The IAPD Congress organisers offer assistance to ensure all delegates have a smooth journey and can focus on the important work and networking opportunities the event promises.
Cape Town’s impressive air access infrastructure, coupled with the city’s vibrant atmosphere and world-class event facilities, sets the stage for an IAPD Congress that is not only information-rich but also logistically accessible. As the global plastics distribution community prepares to convene in 2025, Cape Town International Airport’s expanding connectivity underscores the city’s readiness to welcome and support international guests with exemplary service and ease.