Long Queues Frustrate Holidaymakers as Border Management Authority Faces Technical Issues
As South Africans gear up for the summer holiday season, OR Tambo International Airport has become a hotspot for frustrated travellers. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has alerted passengers to delays caused by a technical glitch in the Border Management Authority’s (BMA) biometric movement control system.
Technical Glitch Sparks Delays
The unresponsiveness of the BMA’s passport control processing system has led to extended queues at South Africa’s busiest airport. Passengers have been urged to allow for additional travel time as ACSA technicians work to resolve the issue.
“ACSA has deployed additional personnel to assist with passenger movement,” the airport management said in a statement.
To maintain passport control operations, the BMA has transitioned to manual procedures, but this workaround has led to further delays.
Passenger Advisory
ACSA has recommended that travellers arrive early to ensure smoother processing during this challenging time.
“We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and understanding,” said ACSA. “We will provide updates as the situation evolves.”
Recent Airport Challenges
This is not the first incident to disrupt operations at OR Tambo International Airport. Last week, refuelling challenges delayed around 70% of national flights. Additionally, Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) warned in July of disruptions at several other airports nationwide due to maintenance programs on instrument flight procedures.
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