Acsa and Mangaung Partner to Drive Bram Fischer Airport Development

Acsa and Mangaung Partner to Drive Bram Fischer Airport DDevelopment. Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) and the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance development at Bram Fischer International Airport, positioning it as a hub for regional economic growth.

The agreement, signed on 16 March at Bram Fischer International Airport, establishes a framework for coordinated planning and cooperation between the two entities. The partnership is expected to support regional priorities including economic growth, infrastructure development, tourism, investment attraction, and skills development.

As a key transport gateway for the Free State, Bram Fischer International Airport plays an important role in connecting the province to domestic and international markets. The collaboration aims to strengthen its role as a centre for aviation-related activity, logistics, tourism, and commercial investment.

The initiative aligns with Acsa’s airport city and aerotropolis strategy, which leverages airport infrastructure to drive economic growth and urban development. Faith Zwane, Acsa assistant general manager for Cluster 1, said: “Airports are powerful economic enablers that extend far beyond aviation operations. Through this partnership with the MMM, we are aligning our development vision to ensure that Bram Fischer International Airport continues to serve as a strategic gateway for the Free State while unlocking new opportunities for investment, skills development, trade and job creation in the region.”

Sello More, city manager of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, described the airport node as one of the city’s flagship catalytic projects. “Through the development of a logistics precinct, expanded cargo capabilities and aviation-linked industries, we are strengthening regional value chains while supporting South Africa’s broader trade corridors,” he said.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from provincial government, municipal leadership, and transport sector stakeholders. Both parties emphasized that the agreement marks a step toward implementing joint initiatives to enhance the airport’s role as a regional gateway and deliver socio-economic benefits for Mangaung and the Free State.