Industrial & Commercial Property in Airport Industria, Western Cape – Warehousing & Business Space To Let or For Sale

Airport Industria is one of Cape Town’s most strategically located industrial and commercial zones, positioned immediately east of Cape Town International Airport. Established in the late 1970s, the area was initially designed to support air freight and logistics operations but has grown into a vital hub for warehousing, manufacturing, and distribution.

Interesting fact: Its proximity to the airport has made it one of the most in-demand areas for time-sensitive and high-throughput industries. With infrastructure designed to handle large-scale operations, Airport Industria has become the go-to location for national and global companies.

Business Landscape

This area supports a wide variety of sectors, including:

• Logistics and Distribution

• Freight forwarding and warehousing

• Light manufacturing and cold storage

• Aviation-related services

Some major businesses in the area include DHL, Bidvest Panalpina Logistics, DPD Laser, and large freight handlers servicing Cape Town International. Because of its centrality, many e-commerce and FMCG companies also operate warehousing and cross-docking facilities here.

What makes Airport Industria particularly valuable is its 24-hour freight accessibility, proximity to major transport corridors, and its established reputation for efficiency and operational convenience.

Location & Accessibility

Airport Industria is bordered by the N2 highway to the south and is just off Borcherds Quarry Road, providing direct access to:

• Cape Town International Airport – just 3 km away, a quick 5-minute drive.

• N2 Highway – a direct east-west connection between the Cape Town CBD and Somerset West.

• R300 – connects Airport Industria to the N1 and northern industrial areas like Brackenfell and Bellville.

• Cape Town CBD – approximately 17 km away (20 minutes via N2).

• Port of Cape Town – approximately 19 km, which supports export-heavy businesses.

Public transport is reliable with MyCiTi feeder services, minibus taxis, and Golden Arrow bus routes connecting the area with Bellville, Parow, and Philippi.

Lifestyle and Staff

Although primarily industrial, Airport Industria is well-supported by nearby amenities that enhance staff experience:

• Lunch and Coffee Spots – Spur and Wimpy are located at the nearby Airport Shopping Centre, while coffee outlets such as Vida e Caffè and Mugg & Bean are available in the terminal area.

• Shopping – The Airport Shopping Centre and N1 City Mall are within a 10–15 minute drive.

• Business Networking – Co-working and conference facilities are accessible in Century City and Bellville.

These nearby lifestyle offerings help retain skilled staff, especially in logistics, warehousing, and light tech trades.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Airport Industria was developed with industrial operations in mind. Key features include:

• Robust Power Supply – Industrial-grade three-phase electricity; Eskom and municipal support for large operations.

• Fibre Connectivity – High-speed fibre from major providers like Openserve and Vumatel.

• Bulk Services – Ample water and sewage infrastructure, plus truck-friendly road layouts.

• Security – Several business parks offer 24/7 security and controlled access.

• Warehousing Parks – Notable areas include:

  • Airport Industria North & South

  • Airport City

  • Sky Park and Freight City

These precincts offer modern warehousing, truck access, and loading facilities.

Commercial/Industrial Property Trends

• Average warehouse rental: R60–R70/m² for standard industrial space.

• Large-format logistics hubs: from R55/m² (over 5,000m²).

• Smaller warehousing units (200–500m²): typically from R75/m² due to higher demand.

• Vacancy rates: very low, under 5% as of Q2 2024 – reflecting steady demand.

• Sales prices: R6,500/m² to R8,000/m² depending on property age, finishes, and yard space.

Properties include:

• Distribution centres

• Light manufacturing facilities

• Cold storage and temperature-controlled spaces

• Truck yards and logistics depots

Properties to Rent in Airport Industria

1. Golf Air Park - 3213m² Green Star-rated warehouse in Airport Industria, designed for logistics, storage, and distribution. 

2. Skyhawk - Cape Town’s premier industrial complex. These units, ranging from 4,000m² to 16,000m², feature A-grade office spaces, robust 24-hour security, and expansive yard areas to meet all operational needs.

3. King Air Industrial Park - The total site area is +-71 ha, which allows for the provision of some 280,000m2 of distribution, warehousing, showroom and offices. 

Zoning & Development

Zoning in Airport Industria is predominantly Industrial 1, with some Commercial 2 and Utility zones.

Ongoing developments include:

• Upgrades to access roads and stormwater infrastructure.

• Expanded freight terminal facilities by ACSA (Airports Company SA).

• Increasing investment in green energy support for rooftop solar installations.

The area is aligned with the City of Cape Town’s Spatial Development Plan, which earmarks it as a long-term strategic logistics hub.

Advantages of Operating in This Area

Top reasons businesses choose Airport Industria:

1. Immediate proximity to the airport – ideal for perishable goods and urgent freight.

2. Excellent transport infrastructure – access to N2, R300, and regional logistics routes.

3. Low vacancy and high demand – an active, stable market with predictable returns.

4. Established services – freight, logistics, and facilities management all in one node.

5. Business confidence – a mature area with both national and multinational tenants.

6. Efficient labour pool access from nearby suburbs (Nyanga, Bishop Lavis, Elsies River).

Challenges or Considerations

• Limited retail or leisure within the immediate area; employees rely on nearby areas for lifestyle.

• Congestion during peak hours, especially around the Borcherds Quarry interchange.

• Higher rentals due to location demand compared to more peripheral industrial zones.

Airport Industria in the Western Cape remains one of South Africa’s top-performing industrial zones. With its unbeatable location adjacent to Cape Town International, a well-established logistics ecosystem, and consistent demand for warehousing and commercial properties, it’s an obvious choice for businesses seeking efficiency, reach, and scalability.

To view available properties or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What types of properties are available in Airport Industria?
Warehousing, logistics hubs, cold storage, light industrial units, and some office-commercial hybrids.

2. How close is Airport Industria to Cape Town International Airport?
Roughly 3 km, or a 5-minute drive, is exceptionally convenient for air freight users.

3. What are the average industrial rental rates in the area?
R60–R70/m² depending on size and finishes.

4. Is fibre internet available for business use?
Yes, high-speed fibre connectivity is readily available via multiple ISPs.

5. Are there any new developments in the pipeline?
Yes, including road upgrades, freight expansion zones, and ACSA infrastructure investment.

6. What zoning applies in the area?
Primarily Industrial 1 with some Commercial 2 zones in mixed-use precincts.

7. Is public transport accessible for staff?
Yes, via MyCiTi bus, taxis, and other municipal routes.

8. Are there nearby lunch or coffee spots?
Yes, the Airport Shopping Centre and Cape Town International terminal offer food courts, cafes, and supermarkets.

9. What is the vacancy rate currently like?
Under 5% in Q2 2024, indicating strong demand and a competitive market.

10. Who are some major companies operating in the area?
DHL, DPD Laser, Bidvest Panalpina, and other global logistics providers.