Flying from O.R. Tambo on a Monday? Arrive early, says ACSA

Travellers flying out on a Monday morning from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are being urged to arrive earlier than usual. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that Monday mornings are one of the busiest travel periods at South Africa’s main international gateway.

High passenger volumes combined with weekday rush-hour traffic can lead to:

• Heavy road congestion to the airport
• Longer check-in and baggage drop queues
• Extended security screening times

This is particularly important for international visitors connecting to safari destinations, regional flights within Southern Africa, or long-haul departures back home.

How Early Should You Arrive?

Standard airline guidance recommends:

• Domestic flights: Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure
• International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure

On peak Monday mornings at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), travellers should consider adding an extra 30–60 minutes to allow for road traffic delays and security queues.

Transfers from Sandton, Rosebank, and Pretoria can be significantly slower during weekday rush hour, especially via the R21 and N3.

Building in additional buffer time ensures a smoother departure and avoids unnecessary stress at the start -or end - of your South Africa trip.

 

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OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) upgrades: What travellers can expect in 2026!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed strong progress on the R14.5 billion capital investment programme at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The five-year upgrade is modernising key infrastructure, improving reliability, and enhancing the passenger experience at Africa’s busiest aviation hub.

Travellers passing through Johannesburg are already seeing noticeable improvements across the terminal.

Key improvements already visible

Passengers will spot several upgrades in high-traffic areas:

• Refurbished escalators and travelators for smoother terminal transfers
• New ergonomic seating in waiting areas for better comfort during layovers
• Enhanced wayfinding signage to simplify connections and navigation
• Replacement of carpet with durable tiling at international boarding gates for a cleaner, more contemporary feel

Major Restroom refurbishment

A full upgrade of terminal ablution facilities is underway following passenger feedback, with a strong focus on hygiene and comfort.

Already completed and operational:

• New facilities in Domestic Arrivals (Ground Floor)
• Upgraded restrooms in Domestic Departures near Central Security

Project Timeline

• Phase 1: June 2025 – March 2026, modernising 90 restrooms
• Phase 2: Starts July 2026, upgrading 780 additional restrooms
• Work is carefully staged to minimise disruption to travellers.

What this means for travellers

Expect a cleaner, more comfortable and easier-to-navigate airport experience as upgrades continue. OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is steadily evolving into a more efficient and modern gateway to Southern Africa, benefiting both international and regional travellers.

 

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Johannesburg: OR Tambo International Airport back to normal after severe weather disruptions!

South Africa’s Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has confirmed that air traffic operations at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are operating normally this morning, Monday, 05 January 2026. All services are continuing as scheduled, providing reassurance to travellers during one of the busiest periods of the summer travel season.

ATNS noted, however, that aviation operations are inherently dynamic and remain under continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure safety and efficiency at all times.

The authority further clarified that the flight diversions experienced on Sunday afternoon, 04 January 2026, were not the result of air traffic control staffing or human resource constraints. Instead, the disruptions were caused by severe weather conditions, including intense thunderstorms, which temporarily impacted safe aircraft operations within OR Tambo International Airport’s airspace.

ATNS reiterated that safety remains its highest priority and confirmed that it continues to work closely with airlines, airport authorities, and other aviation stakeholders to ensure the safe, orderly, and efficient management of air traffic across South Africa’s busiest airport.

Travellers are advised to stay in contact with their airlines for the latest flight updates, particularly during periods of volatile summer weather.

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G20 Summit Johannesburg: Road closures and travel alerts for road users in Gauteng (18–23 November 2025)!

As South Africa prepares to host world leaders for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg (22–23 November 2025), authorities are urging Gauteng residents, daily commuters, and both local and international travellers to plan ahead. Extensive traffic disruptions and significant road closures are expected across Johannesburg, Pretoria/Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni from 18 to 23 November 2025.

In a joint statement, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), and South Africa Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that high-security routes and major transport corridors will experience rolling closures to accommodate official convoys and summit movements. Travellers using these routes should prepare for delays, limited access, and extended travel times throughout the summit period.

Where to expect the most disruptions

Major national and regional highways
Several main highways forming Gauteng's core mobility network will be directly affected:

• N1 (multiple interchanges including Atterbury, Garsfontein, Botha, Samrand, Olifantsfontein, Allandale, Bucculeuch, Winnie Mandela Drive, Maraisburg, and more)
• N3 north and south, including the major flyover
• N12 (Elands, Voortrekker, Reading, Comaro, Kliprivier, Xavier, Diepkloof)
• N14
• R21 southbound (including Atlas and Voortrekker off-ramps)
• R24 west / N12 west junction

These routes are widely used by airport travellers, commuters, buses, taxis, logistics operators, and cross-provincial traffic.

Johannesburg’s M1 and key urban arteries
The M1, a major north–south route, will see intermittent closures between:

• Woodmead · Marlboro · Grayston · Corlett · Glenhove · Oxford · St Andrew · Jan Smuts · Empire · Smit · Carr · M2 Crown · Booysens · Xavier · Golden Highway

Popular commercial districts, residential areas, and business zones will also be affected:

• Sandton
• 5th Street · Maude Street · Daisy Street · Rivonia Road · Grayston Drive · Katherine Street
• Melrose Arch
• Whiteley Road · Melrose Boulevard · Athol Oaklands Road
• Rosebank, Westcliff, Parkview
• Oxford Road · Glenhove Road · Jan Smuts Avenue
• Fourways
• Winnie Mandela Drive
• Roodepoort
• Hendrik Potgieter Road
• Nasrec (Expo Centre Area)
• Rand Show Road · Booysens Reserve Road · Nasrec Road · Golden Highway

Full closures to take note of

• Grayston Drive: Fully closed on 22 November 2025 (04:00–10:00)
• Golden Highway: Closed from 17 November 2025
• Nasrec Road: Closed 22–23 November 2025  between Rand Show Road and Shaft 17 Road
• Rand Show Road: Northern section closed 22–23 November 2025 (N1 to Nasrec Road)
• Booysens Reserve Road: Limited access 22–23 November 2025 , with several intersections blocked

Expect delays and detours, particularly around Sandton, Nasrec, southern Johannesburg, and key G20 activity zones.

G20 Social Summit in Ekurhuleni (18–20 November 2025)
Travellers moving around the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre should expect delays along:

• 1st Road · View Point Road · North Rand Road · Trichardt Road · Northern Road

These will form part of the official security perimeter.

How convoy closures will operate
When VIP convoys are in motion, roads will be completely closed—with restricted access for:

• motorists
• taxis and buses
• cyclists
• pedestrians

Closures may last 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on movement schedules.

Peak Operations for Rolling Closures

• 22 & 23 November 2025:
• Morning: 07:00 – 10:00
• Evening: 17:00 – 20:00

Plan errands, commutes, airport transfers, school runs, and appointments outside these hours where possible.

Useful alternative routes

• Between OR Tambo International Airport & Pretoria/Tshwane
• Use the M57 instead of the R21.
• Between Johannesburg & Ekurhuleni
• Use regional roads via Germiston, Kempton Park, or Bedfordview instead of the R24/N12.
• Roodepoort / West Rand
• Use Beyers Naudé Drive, Ontdekkers Road, or Christiaan De Wet Road.
• Fourways & Northern Suburbs
• Use Main Road, Cedar Road, and Witkoppen Road.
• Sandton / Rosebank / Parktown
• Use parallel routes including Corlett Drive, Sandton Drive, and 11th Avenue.
• Southern Johannesburg & Nasrec Area
• Use Chris Hani Road, Main Reef Road, Crownwood Road, Soweto Highway, N17, and Adcock Ingram Road.

Travel tips for all road users in Gauteng

• Allow extra travel time—delays of 30–90 minutes are likely.
• Use real-time navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze.
• Check your route before departing, especially for airport transfers or business meetings.
• Expect heightened security around hotels, conference venues, malls, and tourist areas.
• Public transport users should anticipate delays during peak convoy times.
• Avoid unnecessary travel through Sandton, Nasrec, Rosebank, and OR Tambo corridors during restricted hours.

 

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Travel Alert: Key access roads to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg to close from 18 November 2025! [update]

update (20 November 2025): ACSA has released an update regarding the temporary road closures at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The affected roads will be closed from 18-24 November 2025 and not until 23 November 2025, as previously announced.. The road closures will remain as previously announced. According to ACSA, all flights will continue to operate as normal, with no expected delays or disruptions to schedules.  

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued an important travel advisory for passengers using OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. In preparation for the G20 Johannesburg Summit, set to take place from 22–23 November 2025, several key access roads around South Africa’s busiest airport will be temporarily closed form 18 November 2025.

The security measures form part of the broader logistical planning for the global gathering, which will bring world leaders, high-level delegations, and increased traffic volumes to Gauteng. Travellers are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for airport transfers, and follow all signage and rerouting instructions.

Road closures and rerouting from 18 November 2025:

• Cargo Road – Access restricted; only reachable via Voortrekker Road up to the SAA Cargo Area.
• Arrivals Road – Closed for general access; all vehicles will be rerouted to Parkade 2 North and South for drop-off and pick-up.
• Short-term parking (Piazza) – Fully closed for the duration of the security operation.

ACSA urges passengers, airlines, and transport providers to stay updated and consider using alternative routes or arriving earlier than usual. These temporary changes aim to ensure the safe and efficient hosting of the G20 Summit while minimising disruption to airport operations.

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Airport travel advisory: Plan ahead for delays at O.R. Tambo International (JNB) in Johannesburg during G20 Leaders’ Summit preparations!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced that, in preparation for the G20 Leaders’ Summit taking place in Johannesburg this weekend, there will be heightened truck and service vehicle activity along the O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) cargo road and surrounding areas on Friday, 14 November 2025.

Travellers are advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow additional travel time, and exercise caution when driving in and around the airport precinct.

The G20 Leaders’ Summit, hosted in Johannesburg for the first time, will bring together heads of state, ministers, and delegates from the world’s major economies to discuss global economic cooperation, sustainable growth, and climate action. The event is expected to draw significant international attention and temporarily increase traffic volumes around key transport hubs such as O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).

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Johannesburg: Temporary power dip at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) – backup systems activated! [update]

update (11 November 2025): ACSA has announced that power has been restored at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, and services are being gradually reinstated.   

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced that O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, South Africa’s busiest aviation gateway, is currently experiencing a temporary power dip. To maintain essential airport operations, backup generators have been activated and are ensuring continued functionality across key systems.

According to ACSA, the electrical maintenance team is working urgently to restore full power and minimize disruption to passengers and flights. Travellers are advised to stay informed through their airlines for any potential schedule changes while restoration efforts continue.

As the primary hub for domestic and international air travel in South Africa, O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg remains operational and safe during this temporary outage.

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How tourists can get a VAT refund when leaving South Africa (2025 update)!

Last updated: January 2026
This article has been reviewed and remains accurate for 2026. No material changes have been made to South Africa's tourist VAT refund framework, including claim thresholds, required documentation, or the refund process at international departure points.

Foreign visitors to South Africa can claim back 15% VAT (Value Added Tax) on goods they take out of the country, provided the total value of purchases exceeds R250. Here’s your 2025 step-by-step guide to claiming your VAT refund quickly and hassle-free at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban.

Who can claim a VAT refund?

• Foreign tourists and non-resident diplomats leaving South Africa
• Goods must be taken out of South Africa via a designated exit point
• Total purchases must exceed R250 (VAT inclusive)
• Refunds apply to goods only – not services (like tours, hotels, or car hire)

Step 1: Ask for a valid tax invoice
When shopping, request a tax invoice for all purchases you intend to claim. A valid tax invoice must include:

• The words “Tax Invoice”
• The seller’s VAT registration number
• A unique invoice number
• The date of purchase
• The buyer’s name and address (required if purchase is over R5,000)
• The seller’s name and address
• The amount of VAT charged (or a note that 15% VAT is included)
• A full description and quantity of goods
• Tip: Only original tax invoices are accepted — no copies or photos.

Step 2: Present goods & invoices before check-in
At the airport, you must show both your goods and stamped tax invoices before you check in:

• Find a VAT Refund or Customs Inspection Desk in the departure hall
• If your purchases are in checked luggage, get them inspected and stamped before you hand them over
• Keep your boarding pass, passport, and stamped invoices together for Step 3
• Goods must leave South Africa within 90 days of purchase to qualify.

Step 3: Submit your claim & get paid
Head to the VAT Refund Office at:

• OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg): Terminal A Duty Free Mall
• Cape Town International Airport: Central Terminal Building (before security)
• King Shaka International Airport (Durban): International Departures

Present your passport, boarding pass, and stamped invoices. Once processed, your refund is loaded onto a VAT Refund Card, which works like a prepaid MasterCard®. You can:

• Withdraw cash at any ATM worldwide (outside South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini)
• Spend it anywhere that accepts MasterCard®

Important things to know

• Time limit: Your claim must reach the VAT Refund Administrator (VRA) within 90 days of export
• Large purchases: Over R10,000? Proof of payment may be required
• Exclusions: No refunds on services, consumables partially used before departure, or goods not presented for inspection
• Be early: Arrive at the airport well ahead of your flight to allow time for inspection and processing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I claim VAT on hotel stays, tours, or car rentals?
No – the refund applies only to physical goods you take with you when leaving South Africa. Services are excluded.

Q2: How much must I spend to qualify for a VAT refund?
The total value of all goods (VAT inclusive) must exceed R250.

Q3: Do I have to carry all my purchases as hand luggage?
Not necessarily. If your purchases are packed in checked luggage, you must present them to a customs or VAT official for inspection before check-in.

Q4: How long does it take to receive my VAT refund?
Refunds are usually processed on the spot and loaded onto your VAT Refund Card. However, some transactions may take a few days to reflect.

Q5: Can I claim a refund if I’m leaving South Africa by road?
Yes, but only through designated land border posts where a VAT Refund Administrator (VRA) office or customs desk is present.

Q6: What happens if I forget to get my invoices stamped?
Unfortunately, unstamped invoices do not qualify for a refund. Make sure to complete the inspection process before leaving.

Q7: Is there a maximum amount I can claim?
No set limit, but purchases over R10,000 may require proof of payment (like a credit card slip) and additional verification.

Q8: What if my flight is very early or very late?
VAT Refund desks operate daily, but check airport opening hours ahead of time - especially for smaller border posts or regional airports.

Claiming your VAT refund in South Africa is straightforward if you plan ahead - keep your invoices, allow time at the airport, and make sure your purchases meet the requirements. Add this to your departure checklist and make your trip even more rewarding!

Useful links

• South African Revenue Service (SARS): VAT Refund Info
• VAT Refund Administrator (VRA): Official Site

 

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System malfunction at South Africa’s busiest airport delays departures! [update]

[update 02 August 2025]: Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has confirmed that the system failure affecting Air Traffic Control (ATC) operations at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg has been successfully restored.

The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa has confirmed a systems failure affecting operations at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The disruption involves the Flight Plan Management System, a critical component of Air Traffic Control (ATC), resulting in departure delays and operational disruptions.
ATNS is actively coordinating with all relevant aviation stakeholders to minimise flight delays and manage the situation as efficiently as possible. While the issue impacts departures, strict safety protocols remain in place, and air traffic is being managed with utmost caution to ensure passenger safety.
Travellers flying through O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight status updates. ATNS has assured the public that every effort is being made to restore normal operations swiftly and to keep disruptions to a minimum.

Stay tuned to umhambi.blogspot.com for ongoing updates regarding the situation at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.

 

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Johannesburg: OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) operating normally amid ongoing e-hailing strike!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that operations at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg remain unaffected by the ongoing e-hailing driver strike. Despite the protests disrupting e-hailing services in the city, passenger movement at the airport continues without interruption. To ensure safety and ease of travel, ACSA advises all travellers to use accredited and authorised transport services when arriving at or departing from the airport.

The ongoing strike - led by frustrated e-hailing drivers - centres around demands for fairer commission structures, higher per-kilometre fares, and industry regulation to address growing economic strain. Drivers have raised concerns over unsustainable earnings due to high commission fees, fuel prices, and permit delays. While services across Johannesburg have experienced delays and cancellations, operations at major transport hubs like OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) remain stable and secure.

Travellers departing from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) are reminded to:

• Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic departures
• Arrive at least 3 hours before international departures

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ACSA: OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg fully operational despite e-hailing driver protest!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that operations at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are continuing without disruption. This follows a protest by e-hailing drivers on 10 July 2025, who temporarily halted services in response to the impounding of their vehicles and what they describe as an "unfair and overly lengthy" permit application process.
While some e-hailing services were suspended during the demonstration, ACSA has assured travellers that the airport remains fully operational. All flight operations and airport services are functioning as normal.

ACSA' security team  is actively collaborating with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure a safe environment and smooth travel experience for all passengers and airport users.

Travellers departing from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) are reminded to:

• Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic departures
• Arrive at least 3 hours before international departures

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Johannesburg: Longer queues at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) – travellers advised to proceed to security immediately! [update #2]

update (03 July 2025): ACSA has announced that all security screening points at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are operating at full capacity. While there are queues, they remain manageable and are flowing steadily within the designated maze areas.  

update (01 July 2025): Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has reported a steady improvement in passenger flow and queue management at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. According to ACSA, domestic operations have largely stabilised, while additional staff have been deployed to support international terminal operations and enhance overall capacity.
The company expects full operational recovery by the morning of 02 July 2025.
Despite the positive developments, ACSA continues to advise passengers to arrive at the airport well in advance—at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours prior to international flights—to ensure sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and boarding.
ACSA has also reassured the public that the disruption is limited to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB). All other airports within the ACSA network are operating as normal. 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued a travel advisory regarding OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The airport is currently experiencing longer-than-usual queues at security checkpoints, and passengers are urged to proceed directly to the security screening areas immediately after check-in to avoid unnecessary delays.
According to FlySafair, one of South Africa’s leading low-cost carriers, the increased waiting times are the result of recent operational changes at the airport. ACSA has assured travellers that its teams are working hard to manage the situation and ensure a safe and efficient experience for all airport users.
If you’re flying from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in the coming days, plan accordingly and arrive early. We'll keep you updated on further developments.

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Cape Town International Airport (CPT) crowned Best in Africa for 10th year at 2025 SKYTRAX Awards!

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town has once again soared to the top, being named the Best Airport in Africa for the tenth consecutive year at the 2025 SKYTRAX World Airport Awards™. This prestigious recognition highlights the airport's ongoing commitment to world-class service, cleanliness, and efficiency.
Coming in at second and third place in Africa were OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban, respectively.

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) didn’t just top the overall list—it also took home two more coveted awards:

• Best Airport Staff in Africa 2025
• Cleanest Airport in Africa 2025

Meanwhile, King Shaka International Airport (DUR) shined as the Best Regional Airport in Africa 2025 and secured second place for Best Airport Staff in Africa 2025.

Johannesburg's Intercontinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel was awarded Best Airport Hotel in Africa 2025, proving that travellers passing through OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) can expect exceptional service on the ground and at their stay.

Best Airport in Africa 2025:

1. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – Cape Town
2. OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) –  Johannesburg
3. King Shaka International Airport (DUR) – Durban

Best Airport Staff in Africa 2025:

1. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – Cape Town
2. King Shaka International Airport (DUR) – Durban
4. OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) – Johannesburg

Cleanest Airport in Africa 2025:

1. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – Cape Town

Best Airport Hotel in Africa 2025:

1. Intercontinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel  – Johannesburg

Best Regional Airports in Africa:

1. King Shaka International Airport (DUR) – Durban
5. Dawie Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) – Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth
7. Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) – Bloemfontein
8. King Phalo Airport (ELS) – East London

The SKYTRAX World Airport Awards™ are considered the most prestigious accolades in the airport industry. These awards are based on the world’s largest annual global airport customer satisfaction survey, conducted independently and free from any airport influence. The 2025 survey collected feedback from over 100 nationalities between August 2024 and February 2025, covering more than 575 airports worldwide.

Congratulations to all the winners and especially to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town for setting the gold standard for African aviation!

OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg: Temporary closure of MSP 2 Level 2 Pre-Booked Parking!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced the temporary closure of MSP 2 Level 2 pre-booked parking at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg due to the installation of advanced bay detectors. During this period, passengers and airport users are advised to park at Parkade 2 North upper levels. To facilitate construction, entry booms will remain closed, while one exit lane will remain open for vehicles already parked in the facility.
The installation of bay detectors commenced on 01 April 2025 and is scheduled for completion by 07 April 2025.
ACSA’s car park attendants will be available to assist passengers and direct them to alternative parking options.

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Traffic Alert: Major delays on routes to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) due to EMPD protest!

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed significant traffic delays on key routes leading to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The disruption is caused by an ongoing protest by Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officials, reportedly related to salary adjustments and overtime cuts.

Affected Routes:

• R21 southbound (between Bapsfontein Road & OR Tambo Interchange)
• N3 north
• N17

To avoid delays and missed flights, ACSA urges travelers to:

• Arrive earlier than usual at the airport
• Plan alternative routes and allow extra travel time
• Stay updated on real-time traffic conditions via navigation apps or official transport channels

Stay informed and adjust your travel plans accordingly to ensure a smooth journey toOR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.

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Johannesburg: Baggage handling delays at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) due to network issues! [update]

update (13 February 2025): ACSA has announced that the network issue affecting the baggage handling system at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg has been resolved, and normal operations have resumed. 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) announced earlier today that the baggage handling system at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is currently experiencing intermittent network issues. As a result, airport staff are manually processing all checked baggage. ACSA is actively working to resolve the problem and advises travelers to allow extra time for both baggage drop-off and collection. Stay tuned for updates!

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OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg: Jet fuel supply secured amid NATREF shutdown!

The South African National Department of Transport is pleased to announce that 121.1 million litres of jet fuel have been secured to meet the needs of OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg until the reopening of the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery, expected at the end of February 2025.
This development follows an urgent meeting convened by the South African Minister of Transport Ms. Barbara Creecy on 24 January 2025, with key stakeholders in the fuel industry to address potential jet fuel shortages that could disrupt flight operations.
The meeting included representatives from the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the Fuel Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA), and SASOL. The immediate goal was to resolve the supply challenges caused by the shutdown of NATREF, which was severely impacted by a fire on 04 January 2025.
The unanticipated refinery shutdown led to disruptions, with some airlines needing to refuel at alternative locations such as Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek (Namibia), King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban, and other destinations, causing significant inconvenience for passengers and crew.
In response to this crisis, the fuels industry initially secured 50 million litres of jet fuel from various suppliers by Monday, 22 January 2025. By Friday, an additional 71.1 million litres were sourced, bringing the total to 121.1 million litres. The fuel will be imported through the Port of Durban, with three vessels scheduled to arrive on 01 February 2025 and 10 February 2025.
To ensure smooth delivery, all parties agreed to develop a logistics plan to transport the fuel from Durban to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. An update on these plans is expected to be presented to Minister Creecy by Friday, 31 January 2025.
In addition to addressing the immediate crisis, the meeting highlighted the importance of building a fuel reserve as a safety buffer for unforeseen events such as delays, diversions, or unexpected flight changes. ACSA has committed to engaging with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to explore this further.

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Johannesburg: ACSA issues update on jet fuel supply at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB)!

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued an update on the jet fuel situation at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg following the fire at the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery on 04 January 2025. The fire has disrupted fuel production nationwide, but ACSA confirms that sufficient fuel has been secured to meet the airport’s needs for January 2025. Efforts are ongoing to address potential supply challenges for February 2025.

Currently, OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) has 27.1 million litres of jet fuel in stock. With a daily consumption rate of 3.6 million litres, this supply will last approximately 7.6 days, covering operations until the week ending 02 February 2025.

The total fuel requirement for February 2025 is projected at 97.2 million litres. The NATREF refinery is expected to resume operations on 27 February 2025. In the interim, ACSA, alongside the Fuels Industry Association of Southern Africa (FIASA), NATREF industry partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders, is working diligently to secure additional fuel supplies.

Measures taken by ACSA and stakeholders:

• Collaboration Across Sectors: Engaging all relevant stakeholders to address the fuel shortage and build reserves.
• Prioritising Fuel Transport: Requesting Transnet to expedite the movement of imported fuel from Durban to Gauteng.
• Optimising King Shaka Reserves: Increasing fuel stock at King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban, which has storage capacity exceeding its daily consumption needs.

The distribution of jet fuel is governed by agreements between airlines and their suppliers. To manage the current challenges, airlines and suppliers are exploring alternative strategies, including:

• Tankering: Refuelling at other airports to supplement fuel reserves.
• Fuel Stops: Scheduling additional stops at alternate airports to ensure flight operations continue.

Some airlines have expressed concerns over limited supplier availability, which has led them to implement these measures to maintain operational stability. Airlines are encouraged to adopt prudent strategies to preserve fuel reserves until the situation for February 2025 is clarified.

To ensure smooth travel, ACSA recommends that passengers:

• Allow sufficient time for flight connections, especially at larger airports where customs and immigration processes may take longer.
• Contact their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and fuel considerations.
• Plan their travel with adequate connection times to avoid delays or disruptions.

South Africa: Jet fuel supply secured for O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg amid refinery fire!

The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) has informed Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) that the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) is implementing measures to prevent disruptions to jet fuel supply at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg following a refinery fire on 04 January 2025.
The damaged Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) is expected to resume operations by 21 February 2025. In the meantime, ACSA has reserves to sustain jet fuel availability at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) until 20 January 2025.

To address potential shortages, the following actions are underway:

• Scheduled Deliveries: A 17,000m³ jet fuel delivery is expected on 12 January 2025.
• Pipeline Injection: 31,000m³ of jet fuel will be injected from Durban on 14 January, arriving by 27 January 2025.
• Increased Rail Transport: Priority rail deliveries from Durban and Matola, Mozambique.
• Alternative Sourcing: Procuring fuel from other airports and direct injections to NATREF.

We'll keep you posted! 

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Travel Update: Refueling challenges at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg! [update #2]

update (11 December 2024): ACSA has released some more information about the refueling challenges OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg experienced on 09 December 2024 between 09:05 and 13:01. According to ACSA, the technical problem was due to a drive shaft that sheared (or shattered). This prevented the pumping of jet fuel from storage tanks to the aprons, which enables the re-fuelling of aircraft. The repair work was conducted in compliance with rigorous safety procedures. This encompasses depressurisation, drainage of fuel, purging the system of hydrocarbons and associated gasses and the implementation of specialised rigging to ensure the safe completion of work.
This refuelling technical challenges directly impacted approximately 177 flights and 22 073 passengers between 09:05 and 13:01 when flights resumed. The knock-on effect of this four-hour delay impacted a further number of flights and passengers, over the 13:00 to 23:00pm period when the backlog was cleared.  The total impact on the ACSA network was 483 flights and 49 429 passengers as well as 31 flights cancelled for the day. This took place against an estimated total number of 1500 flights and 110 000 passengers which are normally processed through ACSA’s network daily. Therefore, about a third of the flights were impacted and about half the daily passengers were impacted.

update (09 December 2024): ACSA just announced that the fuel system at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is now fully operational, and fuel trucks are on their way to the apron. Operations are currently back to normal. 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced that OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is currently facing refueling challenges, affecting the ability of airlines to refuel aircraft as usual. As a result, some flights may experience delays. ACSA has assured the public that technicians are working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Safe travels!

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