How to Fly Without Paying an R2,000 Fine This Holiday Season

The Airports Company of South Africa (Acsa) says it is preparing for the holiday rush, with over one million people expected to pass through Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport alone in the coming weeks.

Domestic air capacity has been reduced in the last year as air travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, with multiple domestic carriers grounding planes. This has increased ticket prices and made it even more difficult for travellers looking to book a trip to the coast or abroad for a vacation.

According to Acsa, passenger throughput had recovered 49% by the end of March this year, prompting the company to begin making specific upgrades to its airports in anticipation of a greater recovery in the sector.

The group’s new goal is to make travel as easy as possible for both operators and passengers.

According to Acsa spokesperson Samukelo Khambule, the company is focusing capital expenditure on airport infrastructure projects such as technological upgrades as well as cleaning and refurbishment projects.

OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, and Cape Town International Airport have all undergone renovations, as have security systems, boarding bridges, taxiways, and check-in-bays.

The lighting, escalators, restaurants, and windows will also be thoroughly cleaned before being reopened, according to the group.

OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, and Cape Town International Airport have all undergone renovations, as have security systems, boarding bridges, taxiways, and check-in-bays.

The lighting, escalators, restaurants, and windows will also be thoroughly cleaned before being reopened, according to the group.

Avoid a hefty fine

The parking system at OR Tambo International Airport has been one of the most visible renovations.

To accommodate the expected influx of passengers, the airport has converted Parkade 2 North into a pickup location. These parking lots can now be used to pick up and drop off passengers or airport users.

However, the group warned that if drivers leave their cars unattended or exceed the grace period for drop-offs, they may face regular parking fees or an R2,000 fine.

“We estimate that the average pickup and drop-off transaction can take up to five minutes; we advise passengers to take this into account as they plan their entry or exit from the airport,” Acsa said.

Because of the high number of passengers at South Africa’s major airports and the risk of complications, Acsa has issued a statement indicating the best time to check in for a flight this holiday season.

Domestic passengers should arrive two hours before departure to complete check-in procedures, while international passengers should arrive three hours before departure.

Travel Pass

Acsa is not the only organisation working to improve air travel for South Africans. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) recently announced that on November 29, it will pilot an online declaration system at King Shaka International Airport.

Travelers entering and exiting South Africa will be able to use a new web-based application to pre-declare items purchased, received, or otherwise obtained and pay appropriate taxes.

According to SARS, the new approach will create a streamlined process at all ports of entry across the country.