Business Aviation Flight Operation in South Africa International Airports

Elevate your business aviation in South Africa with the specialized expertise of Just Aviation. Our refined technical prowess ensures the seamless coordination of operations, adeptly addressing the multifaceted requirements of executive air travel. From meticulous flight planning to sophisticated aircraft management, encompassing ground handling, crew support, catering, and comprehensive fuel availability information, our team delivers tailored solutions. Trust Just Aviation to enhance your corporate aviation endeavors at South Africa international airports for business aviation.

Top Business Aviation Airports In South Africa

Top business aviation airports in South Africa are thriving, with top business aviation airports like O.R. Tambo International (JNB), Cape Town International (CPT), King Shaka International (DUR), George (GRJ), and Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ) catering to private and executive travelers. These airports provide specialized services through dedicated FBOs, ensuring seamless, efficient, and private travel experiences. They play a pivotal role in meeting the demands of business aviation in South Africa, connecting executives with key destinations both domestically and internationally.

• O.R. Tambo International Airport (IATA: JNB, ICAO: FAOR)
• Cape Town International Airport (IATA: CPT, ICAO: FACT)
• King Shaka International Airport (IATA: DUR, ICAO: FALE)
• Port Elizabeth International Airport (IATA: PLZ, ICAO: FAPE)
• George Airport (IATA: GRJ, ICAO: FAGG)

Weather reporting for business aviation in South Africa involves advanced procedures and technologies at key airports. O.R. Tambo International (JNB) relies on Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) to provide instant wind speed, temperature, and pressure data. Cape Town International (CPT) employs ceilometers to determine cloud cover height for precise approach planning.

Business Aviation Flight Operations in Johannesburg – O.R. Tambo International Airport (IATA: JNB, ICAO: FAOR)

O.R. Tambo International Airport, located in Kempton Park, near Johannesburg, is the largest and busiest airport in South Africa. It serves as a major gateway to the country, connecting South Africa with various international destinations. The airport is named after Oliver Reginald Tambo, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and former president of the African National Congress.

Runways

The airport features three runways that cater to different types of aircraft and flight operations:

• Runway 03L/21R: This runway is the longest at the airport, measuring approximately 4,418 meters (14,495 feet). It is used for the majority of commercial and cargo flights.
• Runway 03R/21L: With a length of about 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), this runway also handles a significant portion of the airport’s traffic.
• Runway 01/19: This runway is 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) long and is used for various flight operations, including takeoffs and landings.

Terminals

O.R. Tambo International Airport features several terminals that serve different types of flights:

• Terminal A: This terminal is dedicated to international flights, offering customs and immigration facilities for travelers arriving from or departing to international destinations.
• Terminal B: Designed for domestic flights, this terminal accommodates passengers traveling within South Africa.
• Terminal C: Terminal C primarily handles international flights, both regional and long-haul. It serves as an extension of the airport’s capacity to handle increasing international travel.

Business Aviation Operations

For business aviation travelers, the airport provides facilities through Fixed Base Operators (FBOs). O.R. Tambo International Airport offers specialized services tailored to the needs of private jets and business aviation operators. These services include aircraft handling, fueling, crew facilities, and passenger lounges.

Slots Requirement

Business aviation flight operation in Johannesburg – O.R. Tambo International Airport is required to obtain slots, which aids in preventing congestion on runways and taxiways, enhancing overall operational efficiency. To streamline your flight planning, it is recommended to proactively request slots within the designated time frame.

Landing Permit Requirements

A prerequisite for both private non-revenue and charter (non-scheduled commercial) flights is the requisite landing permit, necessitating a lead time of five business days. This indispensable authorization is diligently processed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) within standard office hours from Monday to Friday, spanning 0800-1600 local time. While the possibility of expedited permit requests lies within the purview of the CAA’s discretion, it’s important to acknowledge that weekends and holidays generally preclude permit processing by the authority.

While seeking a landing permit, the submission entails furnishing airworthiness and registration certificates, and if relevant, the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), along with flight logs, global insurance coverage, noise certification, Federal Communications Commission radio licenses, maintenance release certificates, and valid crew licenses. Potential visa obligations might extend to both passengers and crew, prompting proactive verification to forestall potential complications. This advance diligence serves as a prudent measure to circumvent unforeseen concerns during the operational course.

Hours of Operation

O.R. Tambo International Airport operates on a 24/7 basis, offering around-the-clock availability for both arrivals and departures. The official hours of operation span from 00:01 (one minute past midnight) to 23:59 (one minute before midnight) local time, encompassing all days of the week. This continuous operation facilitates flexibility in flight scheduling and accommodates diverse global time zones.

Business Aviation Regulations In South Africa

Obtaining a South Africa Overflight Permit is a mandatory requirement for operators of business jets or commercial airlines planning to transit South African airspace. Facilitated by the South Africa Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), this permit is essential to ensure compliance with regulations. Notably, the overflight permit process has been streamlined by the South Africa Civil Aviation, eliminating the need to provide “Aircraft Documents” except for flights involving “Dangerous Cargo – DGR”. The process entails submitting a notification for the overflight permit at least “24 Hours” before the intended flight date, accompanied by the “ATC Flight Plan” as stipulated by South Africa Civil Aviation Regulation.

However, it’s important to be aware that the permission to overfly South African airspace is contingent on certain factors. Airlines/operators must have an advance deposit with South Africa Civil Aviation or resolve any outstanding payments; failure to do so will result in denied access. For each notification, the civil aviation authority will communicate route navigation charges based on the ATC Flight Plan Routing. If there is a sufficient advance deposit, the notification will be accepted; otherwise, airlines/operators will be required to process the necessary payment. To ensure a smooth process, it is advisable to initiate the overflight notification a minimum of 02 working days in advance.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to note the operating hours of the South African Civil Aviation Authority, which are from (0600Z) to (1500Z). Air navigation bills will be issued directly to the Airline/Operator through “ATNS South Africa”. These regulations and procedures collectively contribute to efficient and compliant overflight operations, facilitating safe passage through South African airspace.

Cape Town International Airport (FACT) Operational Insights

Seamless flight operations at FACT demand meticulous planning. All flights, without exception, necessitate departure and arrival slots, warranting a 24-hour advance request. Unlike PPR, Departure slots are dictated by a pilot’s readiness, requiring timely preparedness for start and taxi. Arrival slots are judiciously allocated according to Estimated On-Block Time (EOBT), encompassing arrival plus taxi duration. While standard ICAO flight plans remain unchanged, EOBT calculation entails Estimated Time of Departure, taxi duration, Calculated Takeoff Time (CTOT) within 5 minutes, flight time, and arrival taxi duration, harmonizing for precise EOBT or arrival slot alignment.

Lanseria International Airport (FALA) and George Airport (FAGG) Operational Insights

For tailored business aviation operations, FALA stands prominent. Hosting a comprehensive general aviation terminal, this airport eliminates the need for PPR or airport slots. Positioned strategically, it bridges the gap between Johannesburg’s business district and prominent hotels, bolstering convenience.

FAGG, another noteworthy option, similarly avoids the complexities of airport slots and PPR requirements. However, operators should be well-versed in the airport’s curfew hours. Operations are scheduled from Monday to Thursday, 0630-1900 local; Friday, 0630-2000 local; Saturday, 0830-1500 local; and Sunday, 0830-1900 local, as per permanent notice to airmen. It’s important to acknowledge that customs, immigration, and quarantine arrangements are no longer facilitated at FAGG.

Ground Handling for South Africa Business Operations

South Africa’s international airports provide a comprehensive suite of essential ground handling services to facilitate seamless aircraft operations. These services encompass aircraft marshaling, baggage handling, ramp services, and catering, among others. Notably, efficient fuel services catering to both Avgas and Jet A fuels ensure proper aircraft fueling. These international airports prioritize quality control, accurate measurement, and adherence to stringent safety protocols during fueling procedures. These critical ground handling operations collectively guarantee safe, timely, and efficient flights, making South Africa’s international airports pivotal hubs for aviation excellence.

Elevate your business endeavors with Just Aviation’s expertise in South Africa’s dynamic business aviation landscape. Our adept handling of operations at South Africa international airports for business aviation guarantees a smooth journey from takeoff to touchdown. Discover the unmatched synergy between strategic business growth and seamless air travel. Trust Just Aviation to be your gateway to success in the realm of business aviation in South Africa.