SAA announces earlier check in times for domestic flights from Joburg

South African Airways (SAA) has announced new departure closure times for domestic flights in Johannesburg.

From 1 April, customers wishing to take a domestic flight from Johannesburg will need to check in 40 minutes before departure, from 30 minutes previously.

According to SAA spokesperson Tlali Tlali, the new rule applies to those domestic flights leaving from Johannesburg to Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and East London.

He said that Joburg receives much higher volumes of traffic than other airports across the country. The earlier closing time is to enable the airline to conclude all departure procedures timeously, specifically the process of baggage handling.

“We have realised that a significant number of short shipment cases on our domestic sectors emanate from late check-in and we trust that the new measures will go a long way in addressing the situation,” SAA said.

More on flying in South Africa

South Africa’s best and worst airlines

Extra flight charges: SAA vs the world

Get ready for new airline baggage rules in SA