Arriving at Johannesburg Airport, what to expect

If you are arriving at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport by air, you’ll find yourself 14 miles east of the city centre. Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport is currently in the process of a complete refurbishment but still provides efficient customer service and top-class facilities to match any international airport.

The airport has six different terminals. Only three terminals are actually in use for passengers and include the Transit Terminal, International Terminal and Domestic Terminal. Most of the Transit Terminal has been torn down to make way for the new Central Terminal. The new terminal is expected to ready in 2009 and is part of the big push for the FIFA 2010 World Cup finals. The new Central Terminal will be home to a travellers’ check-in area, more gates and will have an indoor link between the International and Domestic terminals.

At the moment, there is no covered link between the two terminals and passengers are required to make the 5-minute outdoor journey along the main exit road to change terminals. Hawkers line the route between the terminals offering assistance with luggage and are very persuasive. Their service isn’t free and it is up to you how much you want to pay them.

Inside the terminals there is any number of facilities including all the usual suspects; bureaux de change, cash machines (ATMs), gift shops, restaurants, duty-free stores and curio shops. Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport does however have something a bit different in the form of a chic cigar and wine lounge once you pass through security. Here you can get light snacks, beers and cocktails. The lounge looks like it’s reserved for first and business class passengers, but anyone is permitted to use the facilities.

Both international and domestic flights arrive at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport, with a high volume of passengers using the airport each day. The airport is also used by all the major carriers as well as some minor ones.

Outside the International and Domestic terminals you’ll public transport options that will take you into the city of Johannesburg. Transportation to places farther afield such as Kruger National Park is best done by hire car. There is a range of reputable car rental firms represented at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport, with booking online in advance being the best way to secure the vehicle of your choice.

There are a range of parking options on-site at the airport including short-term, long-term and valet parking lots, in addition to drop-off and pick-up zones for those who don’t want to pay for parking.

Business passengers are very well catered for at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport. The airport has a state-of-the-art business and conference centre in the Arrivals Hall of the Domestic Terminal. These conference and meeting rooms can accommodate up to 10 people and can provide a range of food and fax, telephone, internet and secretarial services.