As the festive season approaches in South Africa, Airport Company South Africa (ACSA) has reinstated its stringent hand luggage restrictions across its airport network. Despite recent attention, ACSA clarified that these regulations are not novel but have been reinforced to manage the surge in passenger traffic and enhance safety measures.
In a bid to streamline the carriage of hand baggage onto aircraft and identify non-compliant items beforehand, ACSA’s regulations intend to ensure passengers adhere to the stipulated guidelines before reaching security checkpoints.
Passengers found with non-compliant hand baggage will be directed back to check-in counters to transfer their items to checked baggage.
ACSA emphasized that these regulations, although not new, will be rigorously enforced, aiming to preemptively identify any illegal or hazardous items concealed in hand baggage. The primary objective remains to maintain the safety of passengers while providing a seamless airport experience.
“Passenger safety is our top priority at ACSA. These regulations are in place to create the safest possible environment for our visitors, ensuring a smooth journey through our airports,” stated an ACSA representative.
The need for consistent controls in hand baggage carriage expressed by domestic airlines prompted ACSA to implement these regulations, supported by international carriers advocating for standardized policies across all flights. This unified approach ensures fairness and consistency in implementing policies for all passengers.
Applicable to all flights within South Africa and international departures, these regulations align with global best practices, prioritizing cabin and flight safety.
From a safety perspective, these rules aim to identify overweight hand luggage that could jeopardize the safety of both the aircraft and passengers. Failure to comply will result in redirecting passengers to check-in counters for luggage check-in. Hand luggage weight checks will be carried out at security points before passengers access boarding gates.
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport early to accommodate the extra time required for baggage check-in, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. In case of flight delays causing passengers to miss their flights, immediate communication with the respective airlines is recommended.
The specific hand baggage allowances are outlined as follows:
- Economy class passengers: one bag plus one slimline laptop bag or handbag
- First class or Business class passengers: two bags plus a slimline laptop bag
- Bag dimensions must not exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm
- Weight limit per bag: 7kg
Passengers exceeding the hand luggage limit will be subject to the excess baggage rules specified by their respective airlines.
ACSA clarified that the reference to a slimline laptop bag pertains to a bag specifically designed to carry a laptop and charger, excluding bags suitable for items like documents or clothing.
Exceptions to these regulations granted by airlines will require passengers to be accompanied by uniformed airline staff to confirm the exception at the hand baggage control point.
“We maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards criminal activities. These hand baggage regulations aim to curb criminality, heighten passenger safety during the festive season, and ensure a pleasant airport experience,” ACSA emphasized.
In conclusion, ACSA’s reinforced hand luggage regulations intend to prioritize safety, streamline travel procedures, and mitigate risks during the holiday rush. Passengers are urged to comply with these rules for a secure and hassle-free journey through South African airports.
