By Marcus Moloko
The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has appointed Siphamandla Mthethwa as its new chief executive, bringing back a former senior executive as the state-owned airport operator pushes ahead with its post-pandemic recovery and infrastructure investment programme.
Mthethwa will take up the position on November 1, 2026, following a Cabinet decision on September 23.
His return comes as ACSA seeks to strengthen its financial and operational recovery after the severe disruption caused to the aviation industry by the COVID-19 pandemic, while advancing investment in airport infrastructure.
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Mthethwa previously served ast the company’s CEO after joining the organisation in May 2020 at the height of the pandemic. During that period, airports worldwide experienced dramatic declines in passenger traffic and revenue, while aviation companies faced severe liquidity pressures.
A qualified Chartered Accountant, Mthethwa brings experience in corporate finance, treasury management, strategic planning, risk management and executive leadership. Before joining ACSA, he held senior financial leadership positions in the telecommunications, banking and mining sectors.
The company’s board believes his institutional knowledge and financial expertise make him well-placed to lead ACSA’s next phase of growth.
Board chairperson Irvin Phenyane described the appointment as the return of a leader who understands both the organisation and the challenges it has overcome. He said Mthethwa helped stabilise ACSA during the industry’s darkest days and now returns as the company prepares for future expansion and investment.
The appointment comes at a markedly different stage in ACSA’s history. While the company’s 2022 financial reporting reflected the severe impact of the pandemic, including a loss before tax of R1.5 billion, ACSA has since returned to profitability.
The company recorded a net profit of R1.1 billion for the financial year ended 31 March 2025, more than double the R472 million recorded in the preceding year.
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The board also acknowledged the contribution of Charles Shilowa, who has served as Acting CEO since 1 July 2026 following the conclusion of Mpumi Mpofu’s fixed-term tenure. ACSA credited him with providing leadership continuity and stability during the recruitment process.
Founded in 1993, ACSA is a state-owned company responsible for owning, managing, operating and developing South Africa’s principal airports. The company operates nine airports, including OR Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport and King Shaka International Airport.
