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Johannesburg Tambo Airport JNB

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JNB Airport Insights & Guide

Key JNB Airport Topics:

Getting to Know JNB Airport

Welcome to Johannesburg Tambo Airport, not only the gateway to South Africa but also home to the tallest air traffic control tower in Africa. Serving over 21 million passengers annually, it's crucial to navigate this bustling hub efficiently. Our concise guide offers essential tips, from flight tracking to dining options, ensuring a seamless experience. Dive deeper into the world of airports with our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.com.

iFly Tip: Get tips on how to keep your kids comfortable and entertained during the flight on our Flying with Children page.

Johannesburg Airport has six terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal E, and Terminal F. Terminal A has 11 gates and is primarily used by domestic airlines. Terminal B has 10 gates and is used by international airlines. Terminal C has 10 gates and is used by international airlines, as well as some domestic airlines. Terminal D has 12 gates and is used by international airlines. Terminal E has 18 gates and is used by international airlines, as well as some domestic airlines. Terminal F has 4 gates and is used by low-cost airlines.

Some of the major airlines that use JNB include South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates, and Delta Air Lines. These airlines use a combination of the different terminals.

To navigate the airport terminals, passengers can follow the signage throughout the airport. There are also information desks located in each terminal where passengers can ask for assistance.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

JNB Airport has six terminals, labeled A through F. The terminals are connected by a SkyTrain, which operates 24/7 and runs every 15 minutes, with a travel time of approximately 5 minutes between terminals. The SkyTrain is located in the public area of the airport, and passengers can access it by following the signs for "Train to Terminals".

If you prefer to walk between terminals, there are pedestrian walkways connecting all of the terminals. The walkways are well-signed and easy to follow, but keep in mind that walking between terminals can take up to 20 minutes depending on which terminals you are traveling between.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from JNB-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"O. R. Tambo has six terminals, but the key ones for international travelers are Terminals A and B. Terminal A is for international flights, and Terminal B is for domestic flights. Make sure you know which terminal your flight departs from to avoid any last-minute rush." — Thabo M., Kempton Park, Gauteng, August 2023

"If you need to transfer between terminals, the airport provides a free shuttle service. It's well-signposted and runs every 15 minutes, so you won't have to wait long." — Linda K., Edenvale, Gauteng, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The Gautrain is the fastest way to get to Johannesburg's city center. It takes about 15 minutes and is much more reliable than a taxi during rush hour. Just make sure you have a Gold Card, which you can purchase at the station." — Sipho D., Sandton, Gauteng, September 2023

"If you’re driving, give yourself extra time during peak hours. Traffic can be unpredictable, especially on the R24 and N3 highways leading to the airport." — Zanele P., Boksburg, Gauteng, October 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, Parkade 2 South is your best bet. It's a multi-story facility with good security and reasonable rates. Book your spot online to save time and ensure availability." — Johan V., Benoni, Gauteng, November 2023

"If you're just picking someone up, use the short-term parking near Terminal A. It's very convenient and you can park for up to an hour without breaking the bank." — Maria R., Germiston, Gauteng, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"The food court in Terminal A has a great variety of options, from local South African dishes to international cuisine. Mugg & Bean is a favorite for a quick coffee and snack." — Kagiso N., Bedfordview, Gauteng, January 2024

"Don't miss the duty-free shops in Terminal A if you have time before your flight. They offer a wide range of products, and you can often find good deals on local crafts and souvenirs." — Lerato S., Brakpan, Gauteng, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check the airport's website for real-time wait times at security checkpoints. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during peak travel periods." — Themba L., Alberton, Gauteng, March 2024

"If you're traveling internationally, arrive at least three hours before your flight. Security can be thorough, and you’ll need time to navigate the terminals and find your gate." — Nomsa T., Midrand, Gauteng, April 2024

iFly Tip: Learn how to breeze through security with tips from our airport wait times guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At JNB, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on how long vehicles can park in these areas, so it is important to plan accordingly. Vehicles may only stop for a maximum of 5 minutes, and drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times. If more time is needed, drivers can use the airport's short-term parking facilities.

For those who prefer not to wait in their vehicles, the airport also offers cell-phone waiting areas. These areas are free to use and provide a convenient place for drivers to wait until their passengers are ready to be picked up. Once passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, they can simply call or text their driver, who can then proceed to the curbside to collect them.

Parking Facilities & Options

JNB Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminals, making it easy to park and catch your flight.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas available where you can park for free for up to 30 minutes until your passenger is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, and there are designated spaces located close to the terminals for easy access.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available with shuttle service to and from the airport. This can be a great option for those looking to save money on parking fees.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Johannesburg Tambo Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers. One of the most popular options is car rental. Major providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz have rental facilities located at the airport. These providers offer a range of vehicle options to suit different needs and budgets.

Taxi services are also available at the airport. The drop-off area for taxis is located outside the arrivals terminal. Fares are metered and vary depending on the destination. It is important to only use authorized taxi services to ensure safety and avoid scams.

For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services are available. These services pick up passengers from designated areas outside the airport and drop them off at their desired location. However, there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed.

Airport shuttles are another option for travelers. These shuttles provide a convenient and cost-effective way to get to and from the airport. They operate on a schedule and pick up passengers from designated areas outside the airport. Fares vary depending on the shuttle provider and destination.

Public transportation options are also available for travelers. The Gautrain is a rapid transit railway system that connects the airport to various destinations in Johannesburg and Pretoria. The train station is located within the airport and offers a convenient and efficient way to travel.

iFly Tip: Save time at security with our helpful carry-on baggage tips for hassle-free travel.

Airport Hotels

Looking for the perfect place to rest before or after a long flight? Our comprehensive guide to airport hotels has got you covered. From the luxurious InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Hotel to the tranquil Dove's Nest Guest House, we provide an overview of the best hotels located near the airport. Most of these hotels offer amenities like complimentary airport shuttles, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay. So, whether you're in town for a short layover, an extended business trip, or a leisurely vacation, you can find the perfect hotel to suit your needs. Check out our Johannesburg Airport Hotels guide now!

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

At the airport, travelers can find a variety of dining and shopping options to make their airport experience more enjoyable. For those looking for a quick bite, we recommend grabbing a sandwich or wrap at Kauai, located in the Domestic Terminal. For a sit-down meal, head to Ocean Basket in the International Terminal for some delicious seafood.

When it comes to shopping, be sure to check out the Duty Free stores for some great deals on liquor, tobacco, and other luxury items. For souvenirs and gifts, visit Out of Africa in the Domestic Terminal for unique African-inspired items. And if you're in need of some last-minute travel essentials, head to Clicks in the International Terminal for toiletries and other necessities.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Johannesburg Tambo Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

Johannesburg Airport offers a range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for all passengers.

For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to access the internet and stay in touch with friends and family.

If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport's lost and found service is available to assist you in locating your belongings.

For families with young children, there are designated children's play areas located throughout the airport, providing a safe and fun environment for kids to play and burn off some energy before their flight.

Special-needs services are also available at JNB, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces.

If you need to access banking services, there are a number of banks and ATMs located throughout the airport, making it easy to withdraw cash or exchange currency.

Finally, for any medical emergencies, the airport has a fully equipped medical center staffed by trained medical professionals to provide assistance when needed.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. One way to do this is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the Johannesburg Tambo Airport. These displays provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another way to stay informed is by downloading the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines have apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. This is especially helpful for those who are on the go and may not have access to the airport's FIDS.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at JNB Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is located in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa.
  • Terminals: The airport has six terminals: Terminal A (domestic flights), Terminals B, C, D, and E (international flights), and Terminal F (VIP and diplomatic passengers).
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include South African Airways, British Airways, and Emirates. For a full list of airlines, visit the JNB Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: OR Tambo handles approximately 50,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 600 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from JNB are Cape Town, Durban, Harare, Dubai, and London.
  • Hub Status: OR Tambo is a hub for South African Airways, Mango Airlines, and Kulula.

Airport History

JNB Airport, formerly known as Johannesburg International Airport, is the largest airport in South Africa and one of the busiest airports in Africa. The airport is named after Oliver Tambo, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and former president of the African National Congress.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1952 - The airport is opened as Jan Smuts International Airport, named after a former South African Prime Minister.
  • 1994 - The airport is renamed Johannesburg International Airport after the end of apartheid.
  • 1995 - The airport undergoes a major renovation and expansion project, including the construction of a new international terminal.
  • 2006 - The airport is renamed OR Tambo International Airport in honor of Oliver Tambo.
  • 2010 - The airport handles a record number of passengers during the FIFA World Cup, which was hosted by South Africa.
  • 2013 - The airport opens a new central terminal building, which consolidates all domestic and international flights under one roof.
  • 2019 - The airport celebrates its 60th anniversary and continues to serve as a major hub for air travel in Africa.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about O.R. Tambo International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: JNB
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +27 11 921 6262
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Private Bag X1, Kempton Park, 1627, South Africa

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Johannesburg Tambo Airport Q&A

JNB Airport has six terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, Terminal E, and Terminal F.
The terminals are connected by a SkyTrain, which operates 24/7 and runs every 15 minutes. Pedestrian walkways are also available for those who prefer to walk.
Passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. Vehicles may only stop for a maximum of 5 minutes, and drivers must remain with their vehicles.
JNB offers several parking lots and garages within walking distance of the terminals, cell phone waiting areas, handicapped parking, and off-airport parking with shuttle service.
Options include car rentals, taxis, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation like the Gautrain.
Yes, there are several hotels near JNB, including the InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Hotel and Dove's Nest Guest House, many offering amenities like complimentary airport shuttles.
Dining options range from quick bites at Kauai in the Domestic Terminal to sit-down meals at Ocean Basket in the International Terminal.
Duty-free stores, souvenir shops like Out of Africa, and convenience stores like Clicks are available for travelers.
Yes, free WiFi is available throughout the airport.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport flight displays (FIDS), airline mobile apps, or the flight departures page on ifly.com.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport