Passengers flying in and out of OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg may need to prepare for longer waiting times at security checkpoints due to new changes in how the airport is operating.
OR Tambo International Airport has new security changes that could increase delays
These changes have not been fully explained to the public but are believed to be related to increased efforts to stop illegal smuggling activities.
The airport issued a notice to travellers, advising them to move directly to security screening after checking in.
In its statement, OR Tambo said:
“Please be advised that O.R. Tambo International Airport is currently experiencing longer-than-usual queues at security checkpoints. We encourage all passengers to proceed to the security screening areas immediately after check-in to avoid delays.”
Flysafair, one of the airlines operating at the airport, also issued a separate advisory.
It noted that the delays are due to “recent operational changes” at OR Tambo. The airline suggested that passengers should arrive earlier than usual and make use of online check-in, especially if travelling with only hand luggage.
Those with checked baggage were advised to allow extra time to go through security and reach their departure gates.
While the airport has not given specific reasons for the operational changes, these new measures follow recent drug smuggling incidents at OR Tambo.
In March 2025, customs officials intercepted a large shipment of cocaine valued at R16 million. The drugs were hidden in boxes labelled as hair products. The shipment came from São Paulo, Brazil, and was supposed to go to France through South Africa.
According to police spokesperson Colonel Amanda van Wyk, this seizure was the second major drug bust at the airport that week. The day before, police arrested a man who had ingested cocaine pellets in an attempt to smuggle them into the country.
He had also arrived from São Paulo. Authorities said the suspect was under medical supervision and would face drug trafficking charges once the evidence passed through his system.
OR Tambo has been described as a main hub used by international drug traffickers. Over the years, security at the airport has been tightened to prevent illegal drugs from being moved through South Africa.
The recent incidents and extended screening times suggest that airport officials may now be increasing these efforts even more.
