Catching a flight is stressful enough. The last thing you want is to be refreshing an app at 4am, hoping a driver accepts. Here is how to get to OR Tambo International Airport calmly and safely.
Book your ride ahead
The easiest way to take the stress out is to schedule your ride.
On Loop, you can pick a date and time when you book. We send you a reminder and start looking for your driver shortly before your pickup time. You see your fare upfront, like any other trip.
Scheduling is great for:
- Early morning flights.
- Late night arrivals when you are picking someone up.
- Busy times like the festive season and long weekends.
How much time should you leave?
A simple rule:
- Local flights: aim to arrive at the airport about 1.5 to 2 hours before take-off.
- International flights: aim for about 3 hours before take-off.
Then add your travel time. Check traffic on a map app the night before. Morning traffic on the R24 and N12 can add a lot of time. Always check your airline's advice too.
Packing for the ride
- Choose a Full vehicle ride if you are travelling with family or lots of bags.
- Tell your driver about big bags in the in-app chat.
- Keep your ID, passport and boarding pass in your hand luggage, not in the boot.
Stay safe from fake drivers
Sadly, there have been reports of people posing as e-hailing drivers at airports to scam travellers, as BusinessTech noted. Protect yourself:
- Only get into a car you booked in the app.
- Check the number plate, the car and the driver's photo.
- Let the driver say your name first.
- Ignore people offering rides in the arrivals hall.
- Never pay outside the app or agree to a different price.
Share your trip
Let someone know you are on your way. On Loop, you can share a live trip link on WhatsApp in one tap. Great for when someone is waiting for you on the other side.
Picking someone up from the airport?
You can book a ride for someone else on Loop. It is handy for parents, friends or visitors who do not have the app. (Trips for someone else are paid by card until your account is verified.)
Quick airport checklist
- Ride scheduled
- Travel time checked
- ID and documents in hand luggage
- Trip shared with someone
- Number plate checked before getting in
Safe travels! For more ideas, read our e-hailing safety tips.
Ready for your next ride?
See your fare before you book, track your driver live and pay with cash, card or wallet.
Book a ride with Loop