Johannesburg: O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) advances R14.5 billion infrastructure programme to enhance passenger experience. It is making strong progress with five-year Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) programme.
Reportedly, this strategic investment modernises key infrastructure, boosts operational reliability, and delivers a world-class experience for all travellers. The current phase targets high-impact passenger areas, including refurbished escalators and travelators, new ergonomic seating, enhanced wayfinding signage, and durable tiling replacing carpets at all international boarding gates for a cleaner, contemporary look.
ORTIA is accelerating a full refurbishment of terminal ablution facilities, responding directly to passenger feedback.
Considering this, Regional General Manager of ORTIA – Jabu Khambule said, “At O.R. Tambo International Airport, we listen to our passengers. This programme directly addresses their expectations for facility standards, delivering infrastructure that meets global benchmarks.”
Work resumed at full capacity after a brief pause for the G20 Leaders’ Summit and festive peak. State-of-the-art ablution facilities are now operational on the Ground Floor (Domestic Arrivals) and the Domestic Departures (near Central Security), featuring premium finishes that prioritise hygiene and comfort.
As per the sources, Phase-1 of the ablution’s refurbishment project commenced on June 01, 2025 and will be completed at the end of March 2026. Khambule added that when phase-1 will be completed then 90 individual toilets will be modernised. He stated that Phase-2 mainly focuses on 780 individual toilets and will commence in July 2026. Their planning will ensure minimal inconvenience to the valued passengers.
These enhancements ensure long-term efficiency, safety, and pride in Africa’s busiest airport. Further, ORTIA thanked travellers for their patience during construction. Khambule concluded his statement and said that they are working towards an airport that moves people efficiently while delivering comfort and excellence.
O.R. Tambo International Airport, commonly known as ORTIA, is Africa’s busiest airport, located in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, South Africa. It is serving as the primary gateway for international and domestic travel to South Africa, it handles over 21 million passengers annually and links to all six inhabited continents.
It was formerly known as Jan Smuts Airport and Johannesburg International Airport, and was renamed in 2006 to honor Oliver Tambo, a key anti-apartheid figure. The airport offers extensive duty-free, retail, food, and beverage options. It is connected via the Gautrain rapid rail system to Johannesburg and Pretoria.