New wait times and security checks at SA airports could lead to major delays: report
South African domestic and international travellers should gear up for a number of new travel changes which could see them missing their flight if unprepared.
According to a new report by Traveller24, this will be the result of increased security measures in South African airports as well as in airports across the world.
In Europe, trade body Airlines for Europe (A4E) indicated that thousands of flights were delayed recently because of the imposition of stricter border controls as well as under-staffing at the airports.
“During this busy summer travel season, airline travellers have become victims of the disproportionate impact that the implementation of new EU Regulation is having on the flow of traffic at European airports. The regulation relates to the reinforcement of checks against the relevant database of external borders,” said A4E’s MD, Thomas Reynaert.
“At some airports, flight delays have increased by 300% compared to last year.”
In addition to extra European travel times, Australian airport authorities are also on high alert following a recent foiled bombing at Sydney International airport.
South African’s travellers heading to the United States can also expect additional security checks, South African Airways confirmed to Traveller24.
Domestic travellers
While the additional security checks are likely to hamper both domestic and international travellers, domestic flyers should also be aware of changes to check-in and flight schedules.
Notably, local airline Kulula announced that from 31 July, the airline will close check-in 45 minutes prior to departure as opposed to the previous 30 minutes prior to departure.
The same check-in changes were made to British Airways’ local flights last year, and it is expected that a number of other domestic carriers will follow suit.
Travelling to the aiport
While Traveller24 focused primarily on changes made by the airlines and airports themselves, South African travellers should also plan for longer trips to and from the country’s airports.
Earlier in July Police Minister Fikile Mbalula announced that he would be stepping up security in and around OR Tambo International airport following a spate of high profile hijackings and robberies.
While Mbalula did not mention any specifics surrounding the security measures, he did note that this would include new road blocks and spot checks which could hamper travel times.
Following the success of these new measures, Mbalula last week indicated that he would be extending the same measures to “other points of entry” meaning other local airports besides OR Tambo are likely to be affected.
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