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George Airport (IATA: GRJ, ICAO: FAGG) is a small commercial airport located in George, South Africa. Formerly P.W. Botha Airport, this facility opened in 1977, and its design precisely matches the appearance of Keetmanshoop Airport (in Namibia). George Airport has changed significantly over the renovations and expansions, compared to its initial rendering.
Although it is small, George Airport has been named the best airport in Africa 6 times (the last of them was in 2017). ACI, the trade association of the world's airports, gives this prestigious award in recognition of the airport's role as a profitable player with great consistency.
Airlines and Destinations
George Airport is primarily for domestic flights across South Africa. Currently, the airport has four direct domestic return flights per week:
- Cape Town (1 hour flight from CPT)
- Bloemfontein (BFN) - 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Durban (DUR) - 2 hours and 10 minutes
- Johannesburg (JNB) - 1 hour and 45 minutes
The longest flight from George (GRJ) is a 401-mile (646 km) non-stop route to Johannesburg (JNB), which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. South African airlines Airlink - operated by BAe 146s - and Kulula.com serve the airport.
Number of Pax/Flights
Easy access has seen the passenger numbers at George Airport increase steadily over time. In 2013, the airport was used by a total of 560,432 passengers, an increase on the 154,000 that were seen ten years earlier. In 2017, the number of passengers through ZAG reached a new high at 785,486 in total, and it approached its design capacity.
The increasing passenger count started to require even further expansion of the terminal in the near future, so it will be able to face this ever-growing demand. Today, the airport deals with a variety of regular flights (both domestic passenger flights and general aviation).
How to Get Here
By Car
George Airport is located in a prime location and can easily be reached by car, as the well-maintained road network leads directly to the airport. For guests who like to drive, there is a rental car pick-up location on-site at the airport.
By Taxi
Taxis are the easiest option available to passengers disembarking at this airport. The taxi fare is more than fair!
By Bus
George Airport is served by a number of bus companies that provide convenient service to the city center and points beyond. Cheap buses to the airport are available.
Parking
Visitors' parking at George Airport is a mix of short-term and long-term. The car parks are situated closely to the terminal building, making them convenient for passengers. Competitive parking rates are available on entrance or through online pre-booking requirements.
Transportation Prices
Different Modes of Transport to and From George Airport You will have the following options to choose from if you want transfer service or car hire/rentals:
- Taxi: around ZAR 150-200 for a one-way trip to the city centre
- Bus Cost - ZAR 50-80 (USD 3-5) for a one-way ticket
- Rental Car: from ZAR 300 (USD 20) per day, depending on the type of car and length of rental
Please check with individual vendors for the latest prices.
Terminal Layout
George Airport Terminal building is a single terminal building that accommodates the arrivals and departures area. The confusing arrows that once directed passengers into their various sections are gone.
The terminal houses generous check-in facilities, passenger security screening, and a small but richly-resourced departure lounge. Within the terminal, passengers will find restaurants and shops as well as seating areas.
Navigate the Airport
George Airport is compact and well laid out, so finding your way around it is easy. Once there, passengers can find the check-in counters, security screening, and the departure lounge with convenience.
There is clear signage through the terminal which demonstrates to travelers where they need to go (gate-wise, luggage carousel, and so on). Passengers can also seek help and guidance from airport staff if required.
Getting Between Terminals
Since George Airport only consists of one terminal, there are simply no passengers that have to travel between different terminals. All are handled by only 1 terminal building, for arrivals and departures.
Services and Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi: High-speed, no-charge internet access is accessible all over the terminal.
- ATMs: For those in need of currency, several ATM machines are available throughout the terminal.
- Currency Exchange - You can exchange your currency here with ease.
- Toilets: You will find clean toilets, one of which is located in the middle of all general stores and have disabled access throughout the terminal.
- Baby Care Facilities: For parents of small children, the airport provides Baby care rooms and Children Rooms.
- Passenger Assistance with Reduced Mobility: The airport offers help for passengers who require special attention or have lower mobility.
- Luggage Carts: Passengers can request a complimentary cart that will be taken by the security without you having to pay anything.
Restaurants and Shops
Restaurants
- RocoMamas George- Various options for classic burgers, steaks and grills.
- Portobello Italian Kitchen: A quick-service pizza and pasta restaurant serving authentic, made-to-order dishes.
- Ilali Restaurant: offers a wide range of local and international cuisine
Shops
- Starbucks: This well-known coffeehouse is located at the airport, offering a variety of drinks and light bites
- Duty-Free Shops: Passengers can shop for everything from souvenirs, gifts to travel essentials in duty-free shops.
Security and Customs
Security Screening
Security screening applies to all passengers and their property, using metal detectors and X-rays. Passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport early enough for successful security clearance.
Customs
Passengers traveling from foreign countries arrive at George Airport and are required to pass through immigration and customs. Customs officers check luggage and personal bags for compliance with import and export laws.
Accessibility
George Airport makes every effort to accommodate passengers with special needs or reduced mobility and cater for your comfort here.
- Reserved Parking: Handicapped parking is provided near the terminal, at no additional cost to you.
- Wheelchair assistance: Our Skycap provides wheelchair and other necessary help for the passenger to move around in the Airport.
- Accessible Facilities - The terminal building with its restrooms and other amenities are designed to be ADA compliant.
- Hearing and Visual Aids - Devices to assist those who are hearing or visually impaired.
Travel Tips
Arrive Early
Your check-in and boarding process start one hour before departure; therefore, be at the airport with lead time.
Online Check-in
Most of the airlines offer online check-ins for passengers, saving them time and hassle at the airport.
Carefully pick what to take
Know the airport standards and laws concerning safety, so that you could pack your products properly in order not to unpack half of them within an hour.
CARRIAGE INFO
Free Wi-Fi is available, and it's always a good idea to stay connected, especially when you are travelling, so use the time wisely and liaise with your contacts.
Check Out the Local Area
George is a great town with lots to see and do. And for exploring more of the Garden Route, why not stay a while longer?