South Africa continues to be one of the most strategically significant private jet destinations in the African region, not only as a corporate center but also as a gateway to safari, recreational, and regional travel. For private jet pilots and crews based in the U.S., flying in South Africa involves a need to understand both regulatory requirements and local airport procedures, especially for flights with more than eight passengers. Although there is a high level of operational flexibility, the process surrounding the Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP), health-related necessities, and slot coordination at specific airports may have an impact on trip planning.
This guide provides practical information for U.S. crews planning to operate in South Africa, with a focus on Johannesburg’s Lanseria International Airport (FALA), King Shaka International Airport (FALE), and O.R. Tambo International Airport (FAOR). It also covers the necessary documentation for landing, overflight, and FOP applications, linking to the following key documents:
- Civil Aviation Authority application form and guidance
- Department of Transport explanatory notes
- FOP requirements list
Airport operations and restrictions
FALA – Lanseria International Airport
For U.S.-based private jet crews, FALA is easily accessible with no standing restrictions at airports. Yellow fever certificates are required only when coming from a country on South Africa’s yellow fever list. Refueling of wide-body aircraft such as the Gulfstream G500 is accomplished on the main terminal apron. For international arrivals, aircraft land at the main terminal for Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) clearance before repositioning for parking. No Prior Permission Required (PPR), or slot allocation is required unless operating during peak events.
FALE – King Shaka International Airport
King Shaka is also accommodating for South African business aviation. There are no standing restrictions, while yellow fever requirements are the same as at FALA. Fueling is normal with enhanced prices when purchasing from Icarus Jet. Parking is usually available except during events of the magnitude of the G20 summit. PPR and slot coordination are necessary for some operations, so prior coordination is advised.
FAOR – O.R. Tambo International Airport
As the busiest airport in South Africa, FAOR provides 24/7 operations without any standing restrictions. Yellow fever documents are only needed for flights that originate from affected nations. Fueling of large cabin airplanes occurs on the main apron, and parking is usually available. Slots are necessary, and crews are advised to make timely requests to prevent operational delays.
Landing permits and passenger limits
In South Africa, the requirements for landing permits are determined by passenger numbers and flight type:
- Flights carrying eight or fewer passengers (Part 91) can fly with a standard landing permit, which is available on about three working days.
- Flights carrying over eight passengers need a Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP), which takes 15-20 working days to obtain. Processing starts only after all necessary documentation has been received and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The FOP application is both CAA paperwork and Department of Transport requirements, and all aircraft paperwork must be certified or notarized.
Foreign operator’s permit (FOP) requirements
The FOP is required for the majority of non-South African operators flying into or out of South Africa carrying more than eight passengers. The basic requirements are:
- Completed TV2 form and SACAA application form, fully signed and notarized.
- Certified aviation documents, such as AOC, airworthiness certificate, registration certificate, maintenance release, insurance, and noise certificate.
- TCAS II and GPWS installation certificates.
- Radio station license, RVSM authorization, EGPWS certification, and any other operational certificates.
- For scheduled operations: aviation security program and formal designation letters.
- For non-scheduled operations: letters of support from consignors/consignees and cargo manifest, as appropriate.
With a processing time of up to 20 working days, U.S. private aircraft pilots must lodge the FOP application well in advance of planned travel.
Health and entry requirements
Yellow fever vaccination is based on the departure point and not on the passenger’s nationality. Passengers and crews arriving from certain African and Asian countries will need to present valid yellow fever certificates upon arrival. On flights originating in the United States, there is no vaccination requirement, but operators should verify each passenger’s history of travel during the previous six days.
Fueling and parking
South Africa’s main airports generally have stable fuel supply with no shortages being reported. G500-size aircraft can be rapidly fueled at main apron facilities. Parking is ample under normal circumstances, but major events can strain ramp space, particularly at FALE and FAOR. Advance parking confirmation is recommended during peak travel seasons or when international conferences of a large nature are occurring.
Goods declaration
In South Africa, issues typically arise when goods are not properly declared. To avoid complications, the crew must explicitly inform customs officials that any parts on board are to remain with the aircraft and are not being imported. These items should be declared as aircraft or ship stores, ensuring they are treated as essential spares and exempt from importation procedures.
CIQ and operating hours
All three major airports, FALA, FALE, and FAOR, provide 24/7 operating hours and CIQ processing. Crews must confirm that international arrivals adhere to specified clearance procedures prior to repositioning private hangars or FBO facilities.
Key considerations for U.S. Crews
- Lead time for permits: For carrying more than eight passengers, permit at least a month for FOP approval to allow for document preparation and scrutiny by the CAA.
- Document certification: All the aircraft and operator documents must be certified by a commissioner of oaths. Digital scans will not be accepted; original or certified copies are to be submitted by courier.
- Slot requests: FALA does not normally require slots, but FALE and FAOR do. Requests must be made in a timely manner, particularly for large events.
- Yellow fever verification: Verify passenger travel history to prevent delays at CIQ.
- Fuel Releases: Pre-arrange fuel releases or have valid cards available to expedite turnaround.
Conclusion
Flying a private jet in South Africa is relatively easy for seasoned crews, as long as regulatory requirements, particularly the Foreign Operator’s Permit, are addressed ahead of time. For private jet pilots based in the United States, forward planning on documentation, passenger counts, and health regulations will facilitate easy entrance into South Africa’s dynamic business aviation marketplace.
By familiarizing themselves with airport-specific procedures, complying with local regulations, and partnering with the right trip support team, private jet crews and operators can optimize efficiency and prevent expensive delays.
FAQs
- How long does it take to get a Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP) in South Africa?
Processing typically occurs within 15–20 working days after receipt by the CAA and Department of Transport of all certificated documents. - Do US private jet pilots require a yellow fever certificate to enter South Africa?
Only if coming from a nation that is considered a yellow fever risk. It is not required for flights from the U.S.
