VINCI Airports advances Cape Verde growth with major modernisation and sustainability investment programme

Credit: VINCI Airports

VINCI Airports has marked a major milestone in Cape Verde with the completion of the first phase of its airport modernisation programme and the launch of a significant new investment phase to support future growth.

During a ceremony attended by Prime Minister José Ulisses Correia e Silva, Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Avelino Garcia Correia and Nicolas Notebaert, President of VINCI Airports, the Group confirmed the completion of Phase 1A works and outlined plans for continued expansion across the archipelago.

Since taking over operations in 2023, VINCI Airports has strengthened air connectivity across Cape Verde, contributing to a 60% increase in passenger traffic between 2022 and 2025. This growth has been driven by the launch of 35 new air routes, including 15 in 2024 and 20 in 2025. Efforts to attract low cost carriers have improved affordability, boosted tourism and enhanced mobility for the Cape Verdean diaspora.

Phase 1A, completed in 2025, represents an €80 million investment focused on improving capacity, efficiency and sustainability. Key works included runway renovations at Sal and São Nicolau airports, terminal modernisation, reconfigured aircraft parking areas, the installation of self service check in counters and the deployment of advanced IT systems.

Decarbonisation has also been a priority. Solar power plants have been installed at Sal, Praia, Boa Vista and São Vicente airports, alongside LED lighting upgrades and improved environmental protection systems.

VINCI Airports and Cabo Verde Airports have now launched Phase 1B, a €142 million programme over three years. This phase will deliver terminal expansions, new commercial areas, operational upgrades and a runway extension at Boa Vista. Additional improvements such as waste treatment and wastewater processing facilities will be introduced across multiple airports.

The programme is supported by a strong public private partnership model, with sustainability linked loans and shareholder equity ensuring long term investment stability.

Nicolas Notebaert said: “The completion of this first phase and the launch of the next stage of airport modernisation mark a significant advancement for Cape Verde. We are proud to contribute to turning its airport infrastructure into a benchmark for economic growth and sustainable development. In close partnership with Cape Verdean authorities, VINCI Airports is committed to delivering modern, efficient, and well-connected airports while placing passenger experience improvement at the core of our priorities.”

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