In South Africa, and most other countries, you cannot board a domestic flight without valid identification.
Airlines and airport authorities require ID as a basic security and safety measure, so passengers are generally turned away at check-in or the boarding gate if they can’t produce one.
But does this mean you cannot fly domestically without an ID?
In South Africa, the following count as proof of identification:
Important to note: A driver’s licence is sometimes accepted by some airlines as a secondary form of ID, but this isn’t guaranteed everywhere.
So, it is best to check with your specific airline ahead of your flight.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU’VE LOST YOUR ID?
If your ID has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you’re not necessarily stuck.
Most South African airlines will accept an affidavit confirming the loss. This needs to come from the South African Police Service (SAPS) or a Commissioner of Oaths.
This sworn statement, sometimes combined with another form of secondary identification (like a bank card, work ID, or old expired ID), may be enough to allow you to check-in.
However, airline policies vary, so it’s essential to contact the airline directly beforehand to confirm what they’ll accept.
WHY IS A PROOF OF ID REQUIRED?
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
In other related news, Durban is reportedly getting a new major international route this year.
