Airports across South Africa are bracing for a surge in passenger numbers on 20 December, as more than 60,000 travellers are expected to fly to and within the country. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that this is the busiest travel day of the festive season, with a further 320,000 passengers projected to travel by Christmas Eve.

Passenger projections estimate 119,696 international and over 262 108 domestic travellers between 19 and 24 December.

At a media briefing at the O.R. Tambo International in Johannesburg on Thursday, ACSA CEO Mpumi Mpofu and Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato outlined measures to ensure efficiency and security during this high-traffic period. They urged passengers to arrive early, with domestic travellers advised to be at the airport at least two hours before departure and international travellers at least three hours prior.

“Travellers should check the airline’s terms and conditions, such as baggage restrictions to avoid wasting having to join the queue to pay for excess luggage. Download and check notifications on delays on flights and travel information,” a joint ACSA and BMA statement read.

Passengers are encouraged to arrive early to accommodate the increased travel volume this festive season. Give yourself extra time for a smooth airport experience. #FestiveTravel #PlanAhead #PeakHours @ortambo_int @capetownint @kingshakaint pic.twitter.com/8sBR3kmKNE

— Airports Company SA (@Airports_ZA) December 19, 2024

Mpofu added that ACSA and the BMA are working closely with multiple agencies, including law enforcement and customs, to ensure smooth operations. A dedicated technical committee has also been established to address airport-related risks and enhance service delivery.

“BMA, ACSA, South African Police Service, South African Revenue Service, State Security Agency, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department  and the Department of Transport and other stakeholders [will focus] on addressing airport-related risks and crime challenges through a multi-disciplinary collaborative approach.”

There has been concern over the number of undocumented foreign nationals and drug mules entering the country. The Border Management Authority and Airports Company SA today give an update on their collaborative efforts to enhance security and efficiency at ports of entry. Head… pic.twitter.com/arJxXrwdcp

— eNCA (@eNCA) December 19, 2024

Masiapato assures travellers that it is working tirelessly to ensure that the influx of flights and passengers is managed efficiently and service standards are maintained. Staff complements have been increased, especially during peak times, as one measure to address this.

“To further minimise waiting times and to address the challenge of simultaneous flight arrivals and departures, we are working on the introduction of an early warning system. This system will alert our teams to instances where multiple flights are scheduled to arrive or depart at the same time, allowing us to deploy additional resources where they are most needed.”