South Africa · Johannesburg
O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) Online Check-in
Africa's busiest airport and SAA's primary hub. Two terminals (A and B) connected airside; Terminal A handles international, Terminal B handles domestic.
Now at O. R. Tambo International Airport
- Security wait (today, avg) 18 min
- Disruption No reported disruption
- Weather impact Clear, 14 °C
Quick information
Airlines we cover at O. R. Tambo International Airport
O. R. Tambo International Airport hosts about 50 airlines in total. We have terminal-specific check-in pages for the 1 listed below. Pick yours to see counters, bag-drop, and online check-in details.
How to check in for a flight from O. R. Tambo International Airport
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Check in online before you leave home
Most airlines open online check-in 24–48 hours before departure. It saves time at the airport and avoids airport-counter fees on low-cost carriers.
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Arrive at the right terminal
JNB has 2 terminal(s). Check your airline's terminal in the table above before you set off.
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Drop off checked baggage
Counters typically open 2 hours before departure and close 40 minutes before. Use self-service bag-drop kiosks to save time.
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Pass security
Liquids must be in a single transparent bag, max 100 ml each. Laptops and large electronics out of bags. Submit your security wait time below to help others.
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Reach your gate on time
Most airlines close the gate 20 minutes before departure. Allow 5–15 minutes to walk from security to the gate.
Tips for O. R. Tambo International Airport
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Gautrain is the safest option
Gautrain to Sandton is 15 minutes, ZAR 207 single. Avoid unmarked taxis at the airport — use only metered taxis or Uber.
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Allow time for visa-on-arrival
Many African passport holders need to apply for SA visa on arrival; queue can be 30–60 min during peak. Most OECD passports are visa-free.
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Currency exchange better in airport than city for small amounts
Standard Bank in Terminal A offers fair rates and stays open until late. Avoid 'street rate' offers at arrivals.
Popular destinations from O. R. Tambo International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for South Africa?
Most OECD passports (US, UK, EU, Australia) are visa-free for stays up to 90 days. Other nationalities should check VFS Global or SA Home Affairs website.
How early should I arrive at JNB?
2 hours for domestic, 3 hours for international. Allow extra during summer holidays (December–January) and around major events.
Is Johannesburg airport safe at night?
Inside the terminals: yes. Around the airport (after dark): use only Gautrain, Uber, or hotel shuttle. Don't accept rides from unmarked taxis.
Official sources
The check-in details on this page are sourced from each airline's website. For terminal layout, opening hours, and ground-side services, see the O. R. Tambo International Airport official site below.
- Wikipedia: O. R. Tambo International Airport — Editorial overview, history, statistics.
- FlightRadar24: JNB live data — Live flight arrivals, departures, and delays.
- gov.uk travel advice — Up-to-date entry requirements and security guidance for South Africa.