Durban’s King Shaka International Airport has been named Best Regional Airport in Africa.
Image: Supplied
Durban’s King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) has soared to international acclaim after being named Best Regional Airport in Africa at the prestigious 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards, held in Madrid, Spain, recently.
This global recognition again highlights KSIA’s status as a leading regional hub, offering travellers a seamless, customer-focused airport experience and placing Durban firmly on the international aviation map.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), which operates KSIA, expressed immense pride in the accolade.
“These awards, based on the real experiences of passengers from over 100 nationalities, are a reflection of the dedication of our teams and the trust travellers place in our airports,” said ACSA CEO, Mpumi Mpofu.
The Skytrax awards are regarded as the benchmark for airport excellence, with over 575 airports from around the world assessed by passengers between August 2024 and February 2025. The survey evaluates key aspects of the airport journey — from check-in and security to shopping, cleanliness, and departure.
“Our goal is to provide a seamless, safe and enjoyable travel experience for all who pass through our airports,” Mr Mpofu said. “This recognition shows that we are on the right path and motivates us to continue raising the bar.”
While King Shaka International led the way for regional airports, ACSA also celebrated the achievements of Cape Town International Airport (CTIA), which walked away with three top honours: Best Airport in Africa, Best Airport Staff Service in Africa, and Cleanest Airport in Africa. In another win for the ACSA network, the InterContinental Hotel at O.R. Tambo International Airport was named Best Airport Hotel in Africa.
“These wins are not just a triumph for ACSA but for South Africa as a whole,” said Mr Mpofu. “They showcase our capability to operate world-class airports that support tourism, enhance traveller experiences, and contribute to the country’s socio-economic growth.”
ACSA extended its gratitude to every traveller who voted and shared their experiences, helping place Durban’s KSIA among the best in the world.