Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the state-owned operator of South Africa’s major airports, is reportedly exploring a move into the mobile telecommunications sector through the creation of a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). This bold step would mark a significant diversification of its business model and potentially reshape how travelers stay connected at South African airports.

ACSA manages nine airports across South Africa, including the country’s three main international hubs — OR Tambo, Cape Town, and King Shaka. Traditionally focused on aviation infrastructure and passenger services, the company is now reportedly considering leveraging its unique position within the travel ecosystem to offer mobile services directly to consumers.

According to sources familiar with the matter, ACSA is in early talks about launching an MVNO that could operate on one of the country’s major mobile networks — such as Vodacom, MTN, or Cell C. The service would likely focus initially on travelers, particularly those arriving from overseas, offering competitive rates on prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs.

“Acsa considered the introduction of an eSIM offering via the Acsa mobile app, primarily targeting international travellers,”

the company told TechCentral. “The initiative is currently undergoing internal review and, should it be deemed viable and aligned with Acsa’s strategic objectives, the market will be duly informed.”

Strategic Opportunity

ACSA’s vast customer base of millions of travelers annually offers a built-in market for such a service. With increased global demand for reliable and cost-effective mobile connectivity — especially among international visitors — a travel-focused MVNO could offer bundled packages that include data, voice, and possibly even airport-specific perks such as lounge access, shopping discounts, or fast-track security.

This would follow a growing global trend of non-traditional players entering the telecoms space. Retailers, banks, and even tech startups have successfully launched MVNOs in recent years. For airport operators, offering mobile connectivity directly could be a natural extension of their services — one that adds value to the traveler experience and generates a new revenue stream.

Airport as a Digital Gateway

By launching an MVNO, ACSA could position itself not just as a physical gateway to South Africa but also as a digital one. With global roaming charges still high and connectivity a top concern for international travelers, offering a seamless mobile onboarding experience upon arrival could make ACSA-managed airports more competitive and traveler-friendly.

An ACSA MVNO could potentially include:

• Short-term tourist data plans
• Airport Wi-Fi integration and SIM activation points
• Multi-country eSIM options for pan-African travel
• Exclusive deals for international passengers

Challenges and Considerations

While the opportunity is ripe, entering the MVNO market is not without hurdles. Regulatory approval from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), negotiations with existing mobile network operators, and building the technical backend for SIM or eSIM provisioning would all be required.

There’s also the question of customer support and brand perception. ACSA would need to ensure it can maintain a high standard of service and avoid diluting its core brand with a failed or poorly executed telecom venture.

What’s Next?

If ACSA moves forward, it would join the likes of other airport-linked MVNOs around the world — such as Hong Kong’s TravelSim and Dubai’s DU travel kiosks — that cater specifically to transient users.

This pivot toward connectivity could also tie in with broader digital transformation plans at ACSA, potentially including smart airport infrastructure, data-driven customer insights, and greater monetization of the passenger journey.

As travel rebounds and digital expectations rise, airports globally are rethinking their roles. If ACSA successfully enters the mobile game, it could set a precedent for other transport infrastructure entities across Africa and beyond to follow.

Final thoughts

ACSA’s potential MVNO launch is more than diversification—it’s a strategic leap into a fast-growing eSIM economy. With global players like Airalo and Nomad redefining travel connectivity, and even banks like Revolut entering telecom, ACSA can leverage its physical airport dominance to offer a unique digital onboarding experience. Success, however, will depend on going beyond basic reselling—offering seamless eSIM provisioning, airport-integrated perks, and competitive roaming. In a market expected to reach $148 billion by 2035 (Future Market Insights), ACSA has an early-mover advantage in Africa—but only if it builds a robust, traveler-centric MVNO, not just a brand extension.