VINCI Airports has marked a major milestone with the completion of the first phase of airport modernisation and the launch of a new investment programme in Cape Verde.
Since taking responsibility for the country’s airports in 2023; VINCI’s development has lead to an overall increase in passenger traffic of more than 60% between 2022 and 2025, due in part to the opening of 35 new air routes, including 15 in 2024 and 20 in 2025.
The group has also made efforts to enable more affordable travel whilst promoting tourism and providing improved overall mobility for Cape Verde’s diaspora.
Completion of the first phase of works (Phase 1A) in 2025 represents investments of 80 million EUR, and includes achievements such as runway renovations at both Sal and São Nicolau airports; the modernisation of passenger spaces and terminals; reconfiguration of aircraft parking areas; installation of self-service check-in counters and the deployment of advanced IT solutions.
Alongside infrastructure improvements, VINCI Airports has also implemented a number of decarbonisation measures as part of its environmental strategy, including the installation of solar plants at Sal, Praia, Boa Vista, and São Vicente airports; implementation of oil separators; and replacement of lighting systems with LEDs across several platforms.
VINCI Airports and Cabo Verde Airports have now announced the launch of a new development plan, Phase 1B, which is set to involve investments of 142 million EUR to increase the capacity of airports throughout the archipelago over the course of the next three years.
The project includes terminal expansions, new commercial areas, and important operational improvements, including a runway extension at Boa Vista.
Financing for the programme has been made possible by a mix of funding sources, with an initial 60 million EUR sustainability-linked loan secured for Phase 1A in 2023 and a 120 million EUR sustainability-linked loan contributed by IFC, DEG, and EAAIF backing Phase 1B.
Nicolas Notebaert, President of VINCI Concessions and VINCI Airports, said:The completion of this first phase and the launch of the next stage of airport modernization 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.
