Know your code
Cape Town International Airport
The main airport serving Cape Town. Always use the airport and terminal information shown in your confirmed itinerary as the final reference for your flight.
A smooth arrival starts before the aircraft door opens. Keep your booking details handy, know how you are getting onward, and give yourself space for the ordinary steps of an airport day.
Before departure
Prepare for arrival before you leave home.
Check your booking shortly before travel. This is where you will find your most reliable flight, baggage and check-in information.
Keep essentials accessible
Store identification, booking details, travel documents, phone and charger in your cabin bag.
Confirm baggage details
Check your cabin and checked-baggage allowance, then retain the receipt from bag drop.
Plan the next move
Decide how you will travel onward from the airport before your flight, especially for a late arrival.
When you land
The arrival flow, simply explained.
Arrival processes vary according to your journey and airline. Follow airport signage and the instructions of airport or airline staff throughout your arrival.
- Leave the aircraft. Follow the signs for arrivals and, where applicable, immigration.
- Complete border formalities. International arrivals may need to complete passport control and other required checks before baggage reclaim.
- Collect your luggage. Check the arrivals screens for the carousel assigned to your flight.
- Continue onward. Once you have your bags, follow signs for the exit and your chosen transport arrangement.
Baggage reclaim
Collect your bags with confidence.
Before leaving the reclaim area, check that every bag is yours and that it is in good condition. Keep your bag-drop receipt until the journey is complete.
For more pre-flight packing guidance, read the Cape Town flight baggage guide.
Getting into Cape Town
Have an onward-travel plan.
Your choice may depend on your arrival time, group size, luggage and destination. Arrange or understand your transport option before departure, and use official or pre-arranged services where appropriate.
Pre-arranged transfer
A useful option when you want someone expecting you, particularly after a long flight or later arrival.
Ride-hailing or taxi
Check the airport’s current guidance and pickup process before you travel, then use designated collection areas.
Car hire
If you are collecting a vehicle, keep your booking details, licence and any required documents ready.
Flying out of CPT
Heading home or on to the next stop?
Confirm your departure terminal, check-in opening time and bag-drop deadline directly with your airline. Arrive with enough time for check-in, baggage drop, security and the walk to your gate—particularly during busier periods.
Review your fare’s baggage allowance before packing, rather than assuming it matches the journey in.
Common questions
Helpful before you travel.
What is the airport code for Cape Town International Airport?
The airport code is CPT. Check that this is the arrival or departure airport shown in your booking confirmation.
How early should I arrive at the airport?
Airlines set their own check-in and bag-drop deadlines. Use the guidance in your booking and allow extra time for queues, security and boarding.
What should I do if my checked baggage does not arrive?
Report it to the airline or its handling representative before leaving the airport, and keep your booking and bag-drop details available.
Continue planning
Set your route, then compare the details.
When your dates are ready, compare current flight options and review the whole itinerary before you book.
Compare flights to Cape Town