Checking in Rifles at Johannesburg Airport

[DavieH]

Hi Gents
I have just returned from another great Management Hunt with Kobus DeVilliers of Jakkalskuil Safaris.
The reason I write is because of my experiences in checking my rifle (s) in at JNB Airport.
Please do not get me wrong, going through the Police section is ok as long as the documentation is correct, it is when you are travelling on to another flight and destination.
For the past two visits while checking in on my frlight to Bleomfontien, the Group 4 Services reps which take you rifle and ammo are forever looking for handouts.
This is a free service, but on last weeks occassion, because the police duplicated my serial number the rep wanted something to rectify the problem.
I told him I only had Travellers Cheques as South African AIrways charged me R300 to take my guns on board.
In situations like this it takes the shine of the hunt that you have saved up for all year to go through this hassle.
I am constantly worried that you get to the other end and there is no rifle or ammo.
Regards

Davie

 

[sestoppelman]

When you told him about SAA charging to put your guns on board, was that true or a ruse to get out of being nicked again? I hope you reported this to your PH or someone. Its illegal to try to hook you for this stuff.

 

[DavieH]

As I said it cost me R300 from JNB to Bloem, but did not cost me anything on the return.
I fly from Edinburgh to London Heathrow and return and was charged £50.00 for the pleasure
being told it had to do with insurance, yet Virgin fly mt 4000+ miles and do not charge a penny.

Regards

Davie

When you told him about SAA charging to put your guns on board, was that true or a ruse to get out of being nicked again? I hope you reported this to your PH or someone. Its illegal to try to hook you for this stuff.

 

[Shavesgreen]

Looking forward to your hunt report Davie!

Sorry to hear you had to go through this hassle.

Charly

 

[sestoppelman]

Seems odd you are being charged just to put your guns on the plane.