Current Weather
Raw METAR
Clouds - Visual Profile
Weather Briefing
IFRCape Town International Airport is currently reporting instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions with broken clouds at 700 feet and 4 km visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are calm, presenting no crosswind concerns for any runway.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is reduced to 4 km. IFR conditions prevail and an instrument clearance is required for operations in controlled airspace. The ceiling is 700 feet AGL (broken). Only precision approaches may be usable depending on minimums.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 10°C (50°F) with a dewpoint of 10°C. The temperature-dewpoint spread is very narrow, indicating saturated or near-saturated air. Fog formation or low cloud development is likely.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 30 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Expected weather includes: Fog, Mist. Temporary LIFR conditions are forecast with Fog between 18:00Z and 07:00Z. There is a 40% probability of IFR conditions with Mist between 07:00Z and 09:00Z. There is a 30% probability of LIFR conditions with Mist between 16:00Z and 00:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
An instrument rating and IFR flight plan are required. Verify that destination and alternate approach minimums are above current and forecast conditions. The narrow temperature-dewpoint spread creates risk of fog formation, particularly during evening and early morning hours. The forecast indicates conditions may deteriorate. Ensure you have fuel reserves and a viable alternate airport.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
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Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/19 | 10,502 ft | 200 ft | ASP | 346° | No wind data |
| 16/34 | 5,581 ft | 151 ft | ASP | 136° | No wind data |
Weather Statistics - FACT
7,081 observations | Sep 2025 - Jun 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Cape Town International Airport enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 82.5% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the S averaging 11.8 knots, with gusts recorded up to 43 knots. Temperature extremes range from 5°C to 41°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are December, November, October.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 7,081 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jun 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Cape Town International Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Cape Town International Airport
Overview
Cape Town International Airport (FACT) serves as the primary airport for Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. Located at coordinates -33.964802, 18.601700, this large airport provides critical aviation infrastructure at an elevation of 151 feet mean sea level. The airport supports significant commercial and potentially regional aviation operations.
Flying Conditions
The airport features two paved runways: a primary runway 01/19 measuring 10,502 feet and a secondary runway 16/34 measuring 5,581 feet. These runway configurations provide flexibility for aircraft operations under varying wind conditions. Pilots should anticipate potential wind variations typical of coastal airport environments.
Notable Features
Cape Town's airport is situated in a coastal region with complex terrain surrounding the airport, including mountainous landscapes to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The airport's significant runway length allows for accommodating large commercial aircraft. Terrain and coastal proximity will likely influence local meteorological conditions and approach dynamics.
Approach Considerations
With two runways oriented in different directions, pilots have multiple approach options based on prevailing wind conditions. The longer 01/19 runway provides substantial landing and takeoff capabilities for larger aircraft. Careful attention to wind direction and potential terrain-induced turbulence is recommended during approach and departure procedures.
Data Sources & Accuracy: Airport information sourced from OurAirports.com, a collaborative database of worldwide airport data. Weather data from official aviation weather services including NOAA Aviation Weather Center and international METAR/TAF providers. Information is updated regularly but pilots should always verify current conditions and NOTAMs through official channels before flight operations.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at FACT
Official Data Sources
Disclaimer: Data is provided for informational purposes only. Pilots must verify all information through official sources before flight operations. Weather conditions change rapidly; always obtain a current briefing from approved weather services.