Johannesburg, 15 December 2014 – Johannesburg, 15 December 2014 – Airports Company South Africa has confirmed that its airports have successfully started facilitating the anticipated increase in passenger numbers during this festive season.
 
“During the festive season O.R. Tambo International naturally sees a peak in local and international visitors streaming in and out of the airport and since mid-November 2014, we have already seen an increase in passenger numbers,” says Unathi Batyashe-Fillis, Spokesperson: Airports Company South Africa. “Measures have been put in place to make sure that there is a smooth transition through our airport as part of our commitment to providing seamless facilitations.”
 
The company continues to urge passengers to arrive at the airport at least one-and-a-half hours for Domestic check-in processes and two-and-a-half hours early for International departures. Alternatively, they can take advantage of the online check-in facilities offered by the airlines or use the self-service check-in counters at various areas of the airport. Passengers who have used the online check-in service are asked to allow for enough time to drop off their luggage with their airlines and to go through security screening points before boarding.
 
“We are committed to ensuring that passengers and airport users have a great experience at all our airports.” added Batyashe-Fillis. 
 
Visitors to our airports are encouraged to interact with the various retail brands at the airports for last minute Christmas shopping and to take advantage of the festive season discounts that are on offer during this period. Airports Company South Africa recently implemented free Wi-Fi across all its network of airports for either 50MB or 30 minutes (whichever comes first). This offering can be utilised across Airports Company South Africa airports to ensure passengers remain connected with their friends and families.
 
For added benefit, Airports Company South Africa's O.R. Tambo International, Cape Town International and King Shaka International airports offer long-stay parking, with 4 500 bays available for this purpose, on a first come first serve basis. Online pre-booking is also available at a discount of 50% (not applicable for long-term parking). Pre-booking must be made at least five days before use in order to qualify for the discount.
 
During this busy period, port health officials with the assistance of Airports Company South Africa will continue with the implementation of measures to monitor possible cases of communicable disease such as the Ebola virus.
 
Together with its partners, the company remains committed to providing a world-class hub to visitors. Airports Company South Africa’s management wishes all travellers and airport users a peaceful and safe festive season.

 
For media-related queries, please contact:
Unathi Batyashe-Fillis
O.R. Tambo International Airport Spokesperson
Direct: +27 (0) 11 921 6087
Cell: +27 (0) 79 882 7307
Email: unathi.Batyashe-Fillis@airports.co.za