28/10/2022
Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) stands as South Africa's busiest and most significant aviation gateway. Serving as the primary port of entry for both domestic and international travellers, JNB connects passengers to every continent except Antarctica. Whether you're arriving for business, leisure, or simply transiting, understanding the airport's offerings and history can significantly enhance your travel experience. This guide delves into the origins of O.R. Tambo, provides crucial information for tracking your flights, and offers practical advice for navigating this bustling hub.
A Rich History: From Jan Smuts to O.R. Tambo
The airport's journey began in 1952, originally christened Jan Smuts International Airport, in honour of the former South African Prime Minister. Its foundation was laid two years after Smuts's passing, with the official opening by the Minister for Transport, Paul Sauer, on 4 October 1953. The construction was a substantial undertaking, taking eight years and costing £6.2 million. Upon its inception, the airport boasted a main runway of 3,200m and two smaller runways, all 60m wide, facilitating operations for major international carriers like BOAC, Air France, and KLM, alongside South African Airways (SAA) and Qantas.
The mid-20th century saw significant advancements in aviation technology, and O.R. Tambo was no exception. The late 1950s and 1960s witnessed crucial expansions to ground facilities to accommodate the advent of jet passenger aircraft. This era also marked the introduction of the Boeing 747 for South African Airways, necessitating new hangar facilities. By the late 1960s, construction was underway for a new hangar capable of housing two 747s, with associated infrastructure costing around R40,000,000.
During the 1970s, the airport played a vital role as a testbed for the Concorde, evaluating its performance in 'hot and high' conditions. The 1980s, however, presented challenges due to United Nations sanctions against South Africa. Many international airlines ceased operations, and SAA faced restrictions on flying over African airspace, often requiring long-haul flights around the continent. This period also saw the construction of a second runway in the late 1980s.
The transition to a democratic South Africa in the 1990s ushered in a new era. In 1994, the airport was renamed Johannesburg International Airport, and in 2006, it was officially renamed O.R. Tambo International Airport, honouring the prominent anti-apartheid politician Oliver Tambo. This renaming was part of a broader policy shift following the end of apartheid and the establishment of the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA). By 1996, JNB had surpassed Cairo International Airport as the busiest in Africa, a status it continues to hold, cementing its position as a vital hub in the Africa-Middle East region.
Tracking Your Flight to Johannesburg
Staying informed about your flight's progress is paramount for a stress-free travel experience. For flights arriving at Johannesburg – O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), you can utilise live flight arrival information boards. These real-time updates provide the status of all inbound flights until midnight (CAT) on the current day.
The information is typically presented in three-hour time slots, allowing you to filter for your specific arrival window. Crucially, any delays are clearly indicated. For added convenience, many services offer mobile phone SMS alerts, notifying you of any real-time status changes once your flight has departed. Furthermore, an aircraft symbol next to the flight details often allows for visual tracking of your flight's progress in real time after takeoff.
Understanding the Airport Layout and Airlines
O.R. Tambo International Airport is a vast complex comprising three main terminals: the International Terminal A (solely for international flights), the Central Terminal (a combination of international and domestic flights), and the Domestic Terminal B (for domestic flights). The airport features two main runways: 03L/21R, a 4,418m concrete runway primarily used for departures, and 03R/21L, a 3,400m concrete runway predominantly used for arrivals.
As a major African hub, JNB hosts a diverse range of airlines. While South African Airways (SAA) has a reduced fleet following operational changes, with a few A320s, A330s, and B737-8s active, carriers like FlySafair and Airlink are consistently present. Other notable airlines operating at JNB include Kenya Airways, Air Botswana, LAM Mozambique Airlines, RwandAir, Malawian Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, TAAG Angola Airlines, Uganda Airlines, and Zambia Airways. You'll also encounter airlines such as Lift, Air Austral, Air Mauritius, Fastjet Zimbabwe, Air Cote d'Ivoire, Eswatini Air, and Air Seychelles, making it a prime location for aviation enthusiasts.
Key Amenities and Traveller Tips
O.R. Tambo International Airport offers a comprehensive range of amenities to cater to travellers. Restrooms and food/drink facilities are available across various spotting locations, making it convenient for those spending extended periods at the airport. For accommodation, numerous hotels and bed and breakfast options are situated around the airport. The Protea by Marriott Hotel OR Tambo offers limited views of the apron, while the Birchwood Hotel is known for providing good vantage points for observing aircraft movements.
Getting Around: Given the airport's extensive layout, a car is highly recommended for ease of movement and safety, particularly for spotting activities. Public transport options, including the Gautrain, provide access to and from the Johannesburg CBD, Sandton, and Pretoria, significantly easing commuter travel.
Spotting and Security: For aviation enthusiasts, O.R. Tambo is a favoured spot, known for its tolerance of aircraft spotting. However, security is paramount. Travellers are strongly advised to never spot alone, to stay near their vehicles, and to avoid displaying expensive electronic equipment conspicuously. When moving around at night, always use your car, even for short distances. These precautions are essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit.
Best Time to Visit: The period from May to August is considered the best season for visiting, as it experiences less rainfall compared to the summer months, offering clearer skies for photography and observation.
Frequently Asked Questions about O.R. Tambo
- How do I check the progress of a flight to Johannesburg - O.R. Tambo?
- You can use the live flight arrivals information board, which provides real-time status updates for all flights arriving at JNB. Many services also offer SMS alerts for status changes.
- Where is O.R. Tambo International Airport located?
- The airport is situated near the town of Kempton Park, to the east of Johannesburg.
- How many SAA aircraft are currently active?
- As of recent information, SAA has a limited number of active aircraft, including a few A320s, A330s, and B737-8s. The exact number can fluctuate.
- What are the main terminals at O.R. Tambo?
- The airport has three terminals: International Terminal A, Central Terminal (domestic and international), and Domestic Terminal B.
- What are the best times for flight spotting at JNB?
- The dry season from May to August is generally the best time due to lower rainfall, offering better visibility.
O.R. Tambo International Airport is more than just a transit point; it's a symbol of South Africa's connectivity and its historical evolution. By understanding its past, utilising the available tracking tools, and adhering to safety guidelines, travellers can make the most of their journey through this significant African airport.
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