VINCI Airports has announced the completion of the first phase of its airport modernisation programme in Cape Verde and the launch of a new investment phase aimed at supporting continued traffic growth and strengthening the economic and tourism development of the archipelago.
The announcement was made at a ceremony attended by Cape Verde Prime Minister José Ulisses Correia e Silva, Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Avelino Garcia Correia, and Nicolas Notebaert, Chairman of VINCI Airports.
Since acquiring the Cape Verde airport concession in 2023, VINCI Airports has significantly enhanced connectivity across the country’s airports. Passenger traffic increased by 60 percent between 2022 and 2025, supported by the introduction of 35 new air routes, including 15 in 2024 and a further 20 in 2025. The entry of low-cost carriers has improved accessibility while supporting tourism growth and mobility for the Cape Verdean diaspora.
The first phase of works, completed in 2025 and representing an investment of €80 million, delivered major infrastructure upgrades. These included runway renovations at Sal and São Nicolau airports, modernisation of passenger terminals, reconfiguration of aircraft parking areas, installation of self-service check-in counters, and the implementation of advanced IT systems.
Environmental performance has also been a key focus. As part of VINCI Airports’ decarbonisation strategy, solar power plants have been installed at Sal, Praia, Boa Vista, and São Vicente. Additional measures include the installation of oil separators and the replacement of conventional lighting with LED systems across several airport platforms.
VINCI Airports and Cabo Verde Airports have now launched Phase 1B of the development programme, valued at €142 million over three years. This phase will deliver terminal extensions, new commercial areas, and operational improvements, including a runway extension at Boa Vista. Capacity enhancements, including waste and wastewater treatment facilities, will be implemented across airports in Sal, Praia, Boa Vista, São Vicente, São Filipe, São Nicolau, and Maio.
The investment programme is supported by a Public-Private Partnership framework. Phase 1A was financed through a €60 million sustainability-linked loan secured in 2023. Phase 1B is backed by a further €120 million sustainability-linked loan from IFC, DEG, and EAAIF, which reached financial close in December 2025. Shareholders continue to provide equity support to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nicolas Notebaert said the completion of the first phase and the launch of the next stage marked a major step forward for Cape Verde’s airport infrastructure. He noted that VINCI Airports remains committed to working closely with Cape Verdean authorities to deliver modern, efficient, and well-connected airports, with a strong focus on improving the passenger experience while supporting sustainable economic growth.
