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| Executive Travel: Johannesburg |
Private Aviation
Michelle Seaton
06/01/2005
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Business travelers can easily jet in and out of South Africa’s two largest
cities, Johannesburg and Cape Town, but those who wish to mix work with
relaxation—touring the wine country, visiting private beaches along the Indian
Ocean or exploring one of the nation’s game parks—will find short-hop private
aviation options abound. In fact, several of the most exclusive game parks in South Africa, Botswana and Namibia are
accessible only by air. South Africa contains dozens of private charter
companies, numerous regional airlines and many small airfields. The airports of
several South African cities are able to fuel, maintain and secure a large
business jet.
Johannesburg International Airport (JIA) is the largest
airport in the country and handles the most flights and passengers. Because
customs officials search private aircraft in the same manner as the commercial
airliners, and passengers on private flights must wait in lines with commercial
travelers to clear customs, visitors seeking more privacy and convenience may
wish to choose a smaller airport.
Lanseria International Airport is also
located in Johannesburg, but is much smaller and specializes in business jets.
It has 24-hour customs and is actually closer to the city than JIA, eliminating
45 minutes from the drive to the city’s hotels. The security is solid without
being overbearing.
Cape Town International Airport is located in the Western
Cape area at the southern tip of South Africa. About three hours by air from
Johannesburg, Cape Town is the second most popular port of entry for private
international flights. It offers a stunning aerial view of mountains and
striking green valleys. It is smaller than JIA and offers convenience and
security with less customs bureaucracy.
Durban International Airport sits in
the KwaZulu-Natal region near the beaches, mountains and game parks along the
eastern coast of South Africa. Because the area has been the site of several
international conferences, the airport is accustomed to accommodating
dignitaries.
Port Elizabeth International Airport is a small facility very
close to Port Elizabeth, making it convenient for travelers wishing to explore
the nearby beaches and game parks by car. It is one of the least-used points of
entry.
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