Cape Town International Airport (CPT) experienced significant disruptions Tuesday after a fire broke out on the landside of the terminal, leading to the temporary suspension of flights. The fire, which occurred on February 24, 2026, prompted a swift response from emergency services and raised concerns about travel plans for both domestic and international passengers. While the blaze has been extinguished, the airport is working to restore normal operations and assess the full extent of the impact.
The incident began earlier today, causing Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) to temporarily suspend all departures and arrivals. According to a statement released by ACSA, the fire was contained and extinguished, but the immediate priority is to ensure the safety of passengers and staff and to conduct a thorough inspection of the affected areas. The disruption comes during a peak travel season, potentially impacting thousands of travelers.
Fire Contained, Airport Assessing Damage
ACSA confirmed that the fire broke out on the landside of the airport, meaning it did not directly affect the aircraft or runways. However, the proximity of the fire to the terminal building necessitated the suspension of flights as a precautionary measure. Firefighters worked quickly to control the blaze, and investigations are now underway to determine the cause. As of late Tuesday afternoon, the airport remained partially closed, with significant delays expected throughout the evening and into Wednesday.
Cape Town International Airport is the second-busiest airport in South Africa and the fourth-busiest in Africa, handling approximately 11.1 million passengers and 99,138 aircraft movements in 2025, according to official airport statistics. Cape Town International Airport, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the Cape Town central business district, serves as a crucial hub for both domestic and international travel.
Airlines Affected and Passenger Guidance
A wide range of airlines operate at Cape Town International Airport, including Airlink, FlySafair, South African Airways, Air Botswana, and Emirates. A full list of operating airlines is available on the airport’s website. Passengers are strongly advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and potential cancellations. ACSA is urging travelers to avoid traveling to the airport unless absolutely necessary.
The disruption is expected to have a ripple effect on travel plans across the region. Flights to and from Johannesburg and Durban, South Africa’s other major urban areas, are likewise likely to be affected. Passengers with connecting flights through Cape Town should also anticipate potential delays or cancellations.
Looking Ahead: Restoration of Operations
Airport officials are working diligently to restore normal operations as quickly and safely as possible. The focus is on assessing the damage caused by the fire, ensuring the structural integrity of the terminal building, and implementing any necessary safety measures. ACSA has not yet provided a specific timeline for the full resumption of flights, but updates will be provided as they become available. The situation remains fluid, and passengers are encouraged to stay informed through official airport channels and airline communications.
The incident highlights the importance of robust emergency response protocols at major international airports. As investigations continue, authorities will likely review procedures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. For now, the priority remains on minimizing disruption to travelers and restoring full functionality to Cape Town International Airport.
Please share your travel experiences and any updates you may have in the comments below. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates as they become available.

