Passenger Information
all you need to know about airport security
We know there are a million-and-one things to remember before starting your trip, so when it comes to something as important as airport security, and knowing what you can and can’t take with you, it’s good to be prepared, here’s how.
Checking in
When to arrive
We generally recommend you arrive at least two hours ahead of the scheduled time of departure. Whether you have checked-in online or are checking-in at the airport, do allow plenty of time for traffic, parking and security search.
We endeavor to make your journey through KMI Airport as quick and efficient as possible, but this may take longer when flying at the busiest time. It’s your responsibility to arrive on time.
Please note stores will normally be open between the hours of our first and last departing flight each day.
Where to Check in
Check-in desks: On arrival at the airport check the information screens for the correct check-in desk. Once you have checked-in we recommend that you enjoy the restaurants, bars and shops prior to our security checkpoint as most are situated before this point.
If you have checked-in online, have a printed boarding card and do not have any luggage to check-in, you can proceed straight to security.
Remember every airline is different so don’t forget to check specific information directly with them.
Passport Control
Our Immigration Officers at KMI Airport provide a fast and seamless experience for the airport user, so you can be rest assured to get on with your journey without delay.
All international passengers arriving at KMI Airport has to go through Passport Control. Immigration Officers scan passports and cross-check passenger details to ensure that only those eligible to enter the country can do so. You can help Immigration Officers by having your passport open to the photograph page and being ready for examination by the time you reach the inspection point. We endeavour to provide both a warm welcome to passengers visiting South Africa and a convenient return home for local passengers after a trip away. However, the Immigration Officers manages all border control points, enforcing immigration and customs regulations, and the safety and security of the country must, understandably be its top priority.
Airport Checklist
We’ve put together a quick checklist so you’re clear on how to best prepare for airport security. That way you can get on with enjoying your trip.
- Have your travel documents ready.
- If you’re taking liquids (this includes toiletries, perfumes, cosmetics and food), make sure they’re in containers of 100ml or less, and in a transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. You’re allowed a maximum of ten items in this bag. Keep these re-sealable bags separate from your hand luggage, and give them straight to security staff.
- Stick to your airline’s baggage restrictions on hold and hand baggage weight allowance.
- Take off your jacket and/or coat. They will be put through the x-ray scanner separately.
- Empty your pockets into the trays provided.
- Remove laptop computers and other large electrical devices (like iPads and tablets) from your hand luggage. These will be screened through the x-ray scanner separately.
- We may ask you to take off your shoes and belt.
Frequently Asked Questions and Baggage Guidelines
It’s down to you to make sure the amount of bags you take through security meets your airline’s guidelines. This means you avoid being refused entry at the boarding gate.
• Do not carry items for other people.
• Never leave bags or personal belongings unattended. Unattended bags and belongings are considered a security risk and may be removed.
• Do not pack any sharp or restricted items in your hand luggage.
• Unattended bags and belongings are considered a security risk and may be removed.
When travelling from any airport, liquids are only permitted in containers of 100ml or less. These containers need to be in a 20cm x 20cm re-sealable, transparent plastic bag and given to security staff separately from your hand luggage.
You’re allowed a maximum of ten items of 100ml or less, in no more than one bag per passenger. These restrictions only apply to hand baggage; liquids can still be packed in your hold luggage. Take note of dangerous and prohibited items and hand luggage restrictions which is available from your airline.
The following liquids are permitted, provided they’re in containers of no more than 100ml: gels, pastes, creams, contents of pressurized containers, drinks, soups, syrups, deodorant, shaving gel or foam and aerosols. See liquid guidelines for further details. Please bear in mind that this is not a definitive list. Do not pack any sharp or restricted items in your hand luggage.
If you’re unsure, please ask your airline or travel agent before you travel.
It’s down to you to make sure the amount of bags you take through security meets your airline’s guidelines. This means you avoid being refused entry at the boarding gate.
If you’re unsure, please ask your airline or travel agent before you travel.
If you need to travel with containers of prepared milk, that’s fine. Even though they do not have to be below 100ml or carried in a transparent bag, we’ll need to put them through the x-ray scanner.
We advise checking with your airline about restrictions on taking a pushchair, buggy or baby car seat onto your flight.
Anything under 100ml should be put in the transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with you other liquids.
Even though there is no limit on the amount of medicine you can take through security, it will go through additional security screening. You’ll be asked to prove that you need the medicine.
If you need to bring things like insulin and needles, or asthma inhalers, you are able to do so, but only the amount you need for your flight (put the rest in your hold baggage). Again, you will be asked to prove that you need it.
Bringing a wheelchair or walking frame through security is fine and, like all items, it will be searched thoroughly. Check with your airline about restrictions on taking it on your flight.
Should you need to bring medical equipment like heart rate monitors, that’s also fine, provided it meets the restrictions on size. Any equipment like this is subject to security screening.
Every airline is different so don’t forget to check specific information directly with them.
Items you may wish to check:
- Sports equipment
- Bag weight allowance
- Priority check-ins
- Additional charges
- Pre-booking a seat or sitting together
There are eleven national car hire companies based on-site at KMI Airport, all within easy walking distance inside our terminal building.
