Weathering the Storm: Lanseria International Airport’s Visionary Leap into the Future…

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Christine and I arrived at Lanseria with a mix of excitement and nerves, unsure of what to expect from our meeting with Mr. Rampa Rammopo. His reputation preceded him, sharp, strategic, perhaps even formidable. Had we bitten off more than we could chew?

But the warm welcome at reception quickly put us at ease. And as we sat in ear shot of the boardroom, the sound of laughter from within – Mr. Rammopo mid-meeting confirmed what we hoped: this was going to be a conversation worth having.

What followed was more than an interview, it was a deep dive into a vision reborn.

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A Dream on the Rise
Before the world was brought to a halt by an unforeseen pandemic, Lanseria International Airport stood on the brink of a bold transformation. There was an energy in the air, the kind that accompanies dreams backed by meticulous planning, solid capital projects, and an unrelenting belief in growth. LIA had cast its vision far and wide, anchored in a master plan designed to not only meet future demand, but to shape the airport into a regional powerhouse.

One of the key milestones in this ambitious blueprint was the expansion of the airport’s terminal building. This was no minor upgrade. With the expansion of the Pier, Lanseria increased its passenger handling capacity from 3 million to 4.5 million per annum. Simultaneously, the Multistorey Parkade (MSP) project had been completed and operational, the perfect complement to the expected passenger surge. Plans were also underway for a dedicated hotel, an upgraded fuel
farm. It was all happening…until it wasn’t!

Just as concrete was being poured and steel girders hoisted, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, grinding the global aviation industry to a near-total standstill. Dreams were paused, boardrooms fell silent and development projects hit a brick wall. But not all of them.

Some, like the expansion of the Pier, were already too far along to be abandoned. They had to continue, however cautiously. And with that, the tone shifted.Lanseria’s master plan didn’t dissolve. Instead, it evolved…

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Rising from Ruin – A New Blueprint for Resilience
Where many saw devastation, Lanseria International Airport saw recalibration. It wasn’t just about survival anymore. It became about adaptation, engineering a version of the airport that could thrive not just in normal times, but in uncertain ones too. This shift led to a full-scale strategic review of operations, with a central goal: “How can we re-purpose the airport to weather future storms?”

The answer lay in diversification.

One of the clearest opportunities identified was cargo, a market LIA had not tapped into before COVID. Traditionally, cargo operations at Lanseria were limited to the belly space of commercial airliners. But the explosion of e-commerce and the increasing demand for air freight made a
compelling case for a deeper play.Thus, the Lanseria Cargo Precinct is born.

Lanseria International Airport occupying a 90-hectare parcel of currently vacant land – with an additional acquisition of adjacent parcels under consideration, the precinct will be designed as a fully-fledged cargo ecosystem. This project alone is forecasted to claim between 20 to 30 hectares, targeting 5 -10% of Gauteng’s booming 400 000 ton per annum air cargo market. With preliminary designs complete and most regulatory approvals secured, Lanseria is gearing to break ground by Q4 2025. The project, estimated around R2 – R3 billion, is set to be a five – year phased development and a cornerstone of LIA’s post-pandemic legacy.

But the Cargo Precinct is just the beginning.

Tied to the cargo development is another strategic initiative: Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. With SAA Technical’s diminished presence at OR Tambo, a critical gap has emerged in regional maintenance services. Lanseria intends to fill it. Designs are done, funding is partially secured, and tender processes for construction are on the near horizon. This segment will not only serve operational needs but also open up new business avenues for the airport.

Another future-proofing initiative is the new Fuel Farm, which will boost LIA’s fuel storage capacity from 1 million to 4.5 million litres. Final designs have been submitted, and approvals from the City of Johannesburg; delayed but not derailed, are anticipated soon. This project plays a pivotalrole in supporting the increased aircraft activity expected in the years ahead, especially as morecarriers consider Lanseria as a viable base.

Next in line is the FBO (Fixed Base Operator) facility, currently in conceptual design stages. It’s a natural progression for Lanseria, which has long attracted business and private aviation. With market studies underway, the FBO project could soon become another defining pillar in Lanseria’s transformation, catering to elite travellers and specialized aviation services.

Add to this the Taxiway Alpha Upgrades, an estimated R200 million infrastructure investment aimed at enhancing the operational robustness of the airport’s air-side environment. With feasibility studies complete and consultants being appointed soon, construction is expected to be rolled out over 18 months to minimize disruption, ensuring the runway ecosystem matches thescale of LIA’s broader aspirations.

What unites these five capital projects: The Cargo Precinct, MRO, Fuel Farm, FBO facilities, and Taxiway upgrades, is not just ambition, but a sense of readiness. Readiness for growth. Readiness for disruption. Readiness for the future.

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A Legacy in the Making
Together, these developments don’t just mark a recovery from the COVID-19 shock, they represent a powerful leap into a new era. For CEO Rampa Rammopo, these are not mere infrastructure upgrades; they are Legacy Projects: A visionary master-stroke shaped under pressure, re-imagined
during crisis, and executed with precision.

Over the next five years, Lanseria International Airport will transform into an active construction site, one parcel at a time, laying the foundation for the airport of tomorrow. An airport that’s resilient, diversified, and future-ready.

So whether you’re boarding FlySafair “For the Love of Flying,” or flying with any future operators who will inevitably be drawn to this revitalized hub – rest assured, Lanseria International Airport will be ready.

From the ashes of a global crisis, a bold new skyline is rising – and it’s taking off from Lanseria.

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Leads 2 Business | Written by Minnie Zondi

About Minnie Zondi

I am an insanely optimistic ambivert that does everything from the heart instead of the mind. Deeply interested in people and matters that pertain to mankind.

IAN DICKIE – NEWSLETTER

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About Michelle Herbst

I started working at Leads 2 Business in February 2014. I'm a Senior L2Q Account Executive for the Cape Town Region.

L2B Opportunities unearthed in April 2025

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Leads 2 Business is the Premier Research Platform for the Construction Industry.

Providing essential insights, opportunities and leads.

Our platform could be your key to unlocking business success.

Opportunities are researched throughout South Africa and Africa.

For more information,  please have a look at our Pricing Page.

To view more Articles, please visit our Leads 2 Business Blog.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit Leads 2 Business.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit Leads 2 Business Wiki.

About Shanelle Suresh

I started at Leads 2 Business in 2023. I worked in the Projects Department as a content researcher for the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and the Gauteng region. I've experienced many great opportunities for growth and learning in this time. I am now IT Admin Support and I am loving the new ways of contributing to the company's success. My colleagues are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise.

L2B Opportunities unearthed in March 2025

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Leads 2 Business is the Premier Research Platform for the Construction Industry.

Providing essential insights, opportunities and leads.

Our platform could be your key to unlocking business success.

Opportunities are researched throughout South Africa and Africa.

For more information,  please have a look at our Pricing Page.

To view more Articles, please visit our Leads 2 Business Blog.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit Leads 2 Business.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit Leads 2 Business Wiki.

About Shanelle Suresh

I started at Leads 2 Business in 2023. I worked in the Projects Department as a content researcher for the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and the Gauteng region. I've experienced many great opportunities for growth and learning in this time. I am now IT Admin Support and I am loving the new ways of contributing to the company's success. My colleagues are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise.

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About Michelle Herbst

I started working at Leads 2 Business in February 2014. I'm a Senior L2Q Account Executive for the Cape Town Region.

The State of the Public Sector Construction Industry : Challenges & Strategic Shifts …

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The State of the Public Sector Construction Industry: Challenges and Strategic Shifts
The South African Public Sector of the Construction industry has always been shaped by the rhythms of government procurement, but in recent months, a storm has been brewing. A sharp decline in public sector activity is threatening the stability of many contractors, and as someone deeply embedded in the industry, I’ve witnessed these changes firsthand. It’s a landscape in flux, one that demands we all rethink how we approach the market. The public sector’s shifting priorities, changes in tendering processes, and internal political developments are altering the course of construction in South Africa, and those who fail to adapt may find themselves left behind.

A Declining Trend in Public Sector Projects
Since March 2024, I’ve observed a worrying trend in the public sector construction industry. Activity has significantly declined, and this shift is largely driven by changes in government tender advertisements. When I say government, I mean all state entities, including parastatals like SANRAL, Eskom, and the Department of Public Works, etc. At Leads 2 Business, where we monitor the pulse of the market, the signs have been clear: from 2022, we began to notice a significant reduction in tenders, particularly those within the CIDB 8 and 9GB categories. And the situation has only worsened through 2023, with multiple tenders being recalled or withdrawn, especially from key players like SANRAL.

This trend has had a profound impact on contractors, especially those specializing in Civil Engineering (CE) work. What’s more concerning is that, despite our best efforts to stay ahead of the curve, the reasons behind these changes remain opaque. However, we’ve been able to adjust our Private Projects Research strategy to assist our subcontractor client, in response, as the Private Projects Department we shifted our focus to follow public projects with CIDB 7 CE/GB ratings in addition to the larger CIDB 8 and 9GB ones. This move has given our subcontractor subscriber a much-needed reprieve, preventing them from fighting over the diminishing pool of high-tier tenders.

The New Normal: A Slowdown in Public Sector Projects
But now, as we move into 2025, the situation has taken a dramatic turn. The formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) after the elections has shaken up the public procurement landscape. While the transition to a new government was necessary, it’s caused significant disruptions in the tendering process. Project managers I’ve spoken with from the Department of Public Works and the KZN Department of Health shared how internal delays, ranging from the filling of new leadership roles to budget realignments have stalled projects. Simply put, the wheels of government procurement have screeched to a temporal halt.

What does this mean for contractors? With the political reshuffling and changes in governance, projects that were previously on track behind the scenes have come to an abrupt stop. Prices have shifted, contracts can no longer be signed at the same tender rates, and there’s uncertainty about when projects will resume towards being publicly issued as tenders. The knock-on effect is a noticeable slowdown in tender as well as project construction activity on ground since June 2024, and I fear that this is just the beginning of a long, lean period for public sector contractors.

The Rise of Panel Tendering: A New Challenge
A notable trend that has emerged, particularly in my region of focus, Gauteng, is the shift toward panel contracting. This is a fairly new approach where government departments now opt for a panel of pre-qualified contractors who are invited to tender for specific tender contracts. While this may seem like a streamlined and efficient method, it creates several challenges for contractors:

Limited Access: Contractors who are not part of the panel are shut out of these opportunities. The panel system can last for up to three years before  new contractors are invited, effectively locking out many players from participating in these projects.
Lack of Transparency: Since tenders are not publicly advertised, smaller subcontractors and contractors who are not on the panel miss out on opportunities. There’s no public listing of these projects, and information is kept private within the select group of approved contractors.
Rising Barriers to Entry: For contractors aiming to grow their CIDB rating and secure larger projects, the panel system presents a significant challenge. Those who weren’t able to meet the panel requirements in the past are effectively sidelined for the next few years, exacerbating the struggles of emerging contractors.

How Leads 2 Business Helps in Navigating These Changes
At Leads 2 Business, we’ve always prided ourselves on being more than just an information platform. Our mission is to ensure our subscribers stay ahead of the curve, even in uncertain times. As the public sector procurement system shifts, we’ve adapted our strategies to help contractors and vendors continue to thrive.

We have a unique advantage: The ecosystem of our company is integrated in such a way that we gain insights into panel-based tenders and projects, even when they’re not publicly advertised. As many of our esteemed clients sit on these panels, we’re able to access pricing data from pricing requests facilitated through our Leads 2 Quotes pricing platform: a platform engineered to connect the contractor to relevant supplier/vendor in relevant regions of the tender. By tracking these quotations, we can flag relevant public sector tenders and projects that are now not typically advertised by traditional bidding procurement methods.

This approach gives our supplier, manufacture and vendor subscriber the opportunity to see if their products are being priced for panel- based contracts, and this feature also provides our contractor subscriber a competitive edge. By sourcing multiple quotes from our database, contractors can ensure their bids are at more competitive rates.

Why This Matters: Adapting to a Changing Market
The construction industry is going through a significant transformation as it always has and will continue to do, and as someone deeply involved in the space, I can confidently say that the only way to survive and thrive in this environment is to stay ahead of the changes. For contractors and the rest of the construction industry players relying on public sector work, the slowdown in publicly available tenders, the rise of panel systems, and the political shifts pose considerable challenges. But by leveraging our system as a tool, you can remain agile, informed, and competitive.

As the industry evolves, it’s crucial that we all keep adapting, learning, and preparing for the changes ahead. The public sector might be in a period of flux, but with the right tools, insights, and strategies, the opportunities will always be there, waiting for those who are prepared to seize them.

The state of the public sector construction industry is undeniably turbulent, but the opportunities for those who can navigate these changes are still abundant. By staying informed, adapting to the new tendering processes, and using Leads 2 Business as a tool, contractors, suppliers, consultants, vendors and manufacturers can not only survive but thrive in the face of these challenges. The future of the construction industry in South Africa is not set in stone, but with the right insights and strategies, we can shape it together.

If you are a valued Projects subscriber, you can find more details about this Featured Project here.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit our website.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit our Wiki site.
To view more articles, please visit our blog.

About Minnie Zondi

I am an insanely optimistic ambivert that does everything from the heart instead of the mind. Deeply interested in people and matters that pertain to mankind.

L2B Opportunities unearthed in February 2025 …

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Leads 2 Business is the Premier Research Platform for the Construction Industry.

Providing essential insights, opportunities and leads.

Our platform could be your key to unlocking business success.

Opportunities are researched throughout South Africa and Africa.

For more information,  please have a look at our Pricing Page.

To view more Articles, please visit our Leads 2 Business Blog.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit Leads 2 Business.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit Leads 2 Business Wiki.

About Marlaine Andersen

Leads 2 Business Advertising Co-ordinator and Digital Designer

L2B Opportunities unearthed in the last 30 days – January 2025

We put new business prospect leads within your reach.

Opportunities are researched throughout South Africa and Africa.

Find construction Tenders and Projects within the building, infrastructure, mining, and industrial sectors and more.

Our comprehensive, online, resource platform delivers daily leads to help you make informed business decisions.

Leads 2 Business Opportunities we have unearthed in the last 30 Days: for more information check out our Pricing Page.

To view more Articles, please visit our Leads 2 Business Blog.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit Leads 2 Business.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit Leads 2 Business Wiki.

About Shanelle Suresh

I started at Leads 2 Business in 2023. I worked in the Projects Department as a content researcher for the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and the Gauteng region. I've experienced many great opportunities for growth and learning in this time. I am now IT Admin Support and I am loving the new ways of contributing to the company's success. My colleagues are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise.

Embracing Smarter, Riskier Decisions in 2025

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In wrapping up the year, I could have easily written a blog filled with nostalgia about the past year, reflecting on what we’ve accomplished and what we’ve learned. But as I sat with it, I realized that would not be true to who I am. What I truly want to achieve with this blog is not just to reflect, but to set the stage for what’s next. As we wrap this year up, I want to talk about how do we enter the new year with better vision, fresh mindset whilst embracing smarter and riskier decisions based on our ever-shifting landscape.

As a person who believes in preparing for tomorrow while also honouring the past and fully embracing the present. I’ve learned, over time, to hold both the past and the future in a delicate balance. This is a mindset I’ve had to cultivate intentionally, with a great deal of care, over the years. And I want to invite you, wherever you are on your journey: whether you’re a current client, a future one, or someone just – reading this now, to embrace this mindset, too.

Here’s a truth I’ve come to understand: “People perish for lack of vision.” Yes, it’s a biblical insight, but it applies just as much to our work in leadership or business. Vision is everything. It’s what keeps us grounded in our “why”, the deeper purpose behind what we do and helps us navigate the ever-changing landscape around us. Our ability to adapt, to hold our vision while making room for change is what enables both individuals and organizations to not just survive, but to thrive and step into the opportunities that await us.

This brings me to the heart of today’s message: embracing smarter, riskier decisions in 2025.

I want you to imagine that it’s already 2025, and you’re not just getting by, you’re thriving. What once seemed like a season of uncertainty now feels like fertile ground for growth and transformation. The key to this future? The decisions you make today. I’m talking about embracing smarter, sometimes riskier, decisions in the here and now. Decisions that may seem daunting but will set you up for a stronger tomorrow.

Let’s bring this home, particularly if you’re in the construction industry like us. The current landscape is certainly challenging. The South African Reserve Bank has made interest rate cuts, which offer some relief. Even though the growth forecasts remain modest, there’s real momentum building in some sectors. Yes, there’s uncertainty but isn’t that often where opportunity lives? Instead of relying on guesses or vague predictions, it’s time to start making informed, strategic decisions. Take these potential risks and turn them into stepping stones for growth.

One shift that can make all the difference? Investing in a project lead generation service.This isn’t just about finding more projects. It’s about creating a steady, reliable pipeline for your business. Imagine your business pipeline being as solid and dependable as thestructures being built. A healthy, full pipeline means fewer surprises, more opportunities, and a clearer path forward. When your pipeline is steady and reliable you aren’t just reacting to the market, you’re in alignment. That’s when you begin to feel a sense of control and confidence.

Now, I know that we’ve faced some tough challenges this year, especially within the public sector of construction. But here’s what I want you to remember: every cloud has its silver lining. While some areas struggle are struggling, others like KwaZulu-Natal are stepping up with major investments. And the recent crime-fighting agreements? They are adding a layer of optimism to what felt like an overwhelming situation. This tells us two things: First, there’s always a market somewhere for those who are willing to adapt. And second, flexibility is key. If we want to thrive, we must adjust our sails, seek the winds of opportunity, and navigate in the direction where growth is happening. In 2025, we must shift toward a more proactive mindset. This isn’t just about identifying risks; it’s about proactively planning for them and finding ways to mitigate them. The uncertainties we face should not paralyze us, they should drive us to make smarter decisions, take calculated risks and move forward with intention.

So, what’s the key takeaway? The future of the construction industry is indeed bright, but it will only unfold if we approach it with a mindset that is forward-thinking and full of vision. By investing in smarter decision-making today, you can weather tomorrow’s storms and seize the opportunities waiting for you.

To all of our dear clients: As we come to the close of another year, I encourage you to take time to rest and recharge. You’ve worked hard, and this is the time to honour your body, your mind, and your spirit. We look forward to walking this journey with you again next year.

Happy Holidays!

 

If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit our website.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit our Wiki site.
To view more articles, please visit our blog.

About Minnie Zondi

I am an insanely optimistic ambivert that does everything from the heart instead of the mind. Deeply interested in people and matters that pertain to mankind.

L2B Opportunites unearthed in the last 30 days – NOVEMBER 2024

We put new business prospect leads within your reach.

Opportunities are researched throughout South Africa and Africa.

Find construction Tenders and Projects within the building, infrastructure, mining, and industrial sectors and more.

Our comprehensive, online, resource platform delivers daily leads to help you make informed business decisions.

Leads 2 Business Opportunities we have unearthed in the last 30 Days: for more information check out our Pricing Page.

To view more Articles, please visit our Leads 2 Business Blog.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit Leads 2 Business.
To view notes with screenshots on how to use our website, please visit Leads 2 Business Wiki.

About Marlaine Andersen

Leads 2 Business Advertising Co-ordinator and Digital Designer

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