Scores of passengers at OR Tambo International Airport have expressed their frustration after a series of technical difficulties caused significant delays in flight check-ins and boarding processes.
The chaos unfolded earlier today, prompting a cascade of complaints from travellers who were left stranded or scrambling to meet their flight schedules.
The airport advised passengers on social media to arrive earlier to avoid delays.
“Check-in-Notice: @FlySafair is currently experiencing technical difficulties and is using manual processes for check-ins. To avoid delays, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport earlier than usual.”
FlySafair, the low-cost airline at the centre of the disruption, automated a response detailing that their systems were facing challenges across several airports, resulting in the necessity for manual check-ins and boarding processes.
“Hi, we were experiencing system challenges at several airports that were affecting the check-in and boarding processes. To minimise any inconvenience, our dedicated staff and ground-handling partner were manually checking passengers in and boarding them manually at the gates. This has caused most of the flights to be delayed. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to restore normal operations.”
Passengers reported long queues on social media and a sense of frustration as they waited for boarding procedures to be completed manually.
Many have been left anxious about their travel plans and the impact these delays could have on connecting flights or scheduled appointments upon their arrivals.
It is reported that airport officials and airline staff are working to resolve operational disruptions, advising travellers to monitor flight statuses and arrive early to account for potential delays.
The Star