The Port Elizabeth Airport‘s departures terminal is to be upgraded to create more space, a Muslim prayer room and a chapel, the Airports Company of South Africa (Acsa) said on Monday.

It was also expecting the city‘s authorities to approve its plans for a proposed 90-bed hotel, which it expected to be operational by March next year, it said.

Regarding the departures terminal upgrade, airport manager Azad Cassim said: “We are reallocating space and increasing the area.

We are building prayer facilities for Muslims and other denominations. We have such facilities in all other major airports in the country.”

The upgrade would not involve new structures, only interior alterations, including more checkout counters, floor space and security points.

He said a site inspection meeting had been held on Monday morning.

“We briefed potential tender seekers about the job. Tenders close on July 20 and the winner will be appointed by August,” Cassim said. The work is expected to be completed by March.

Cassim said Acsa had submitted its plans for the 90-bed hotel to the council for approval.

“It is planned to be built on the airport precinct next to the car rental parking area.

It will be constructed and managed by a “well-known and reputable operator” who has been appointed. This also will be completed by March next year,” he said.

Cassim said Acsa was conducting an environmental assessment impact for a future 1100km extension of the runway “that would cost about R300-million”.

Acsa‘s projection was that in the distant future a long runway would be needed.