Terminal 1: What to know before you travel

Terminal 1 can feel chaotic when flights pile up or roads are blocked. Want to avoid wasted hours or missed connections? A few smart habits keep you calm and moving.

First, always check live flight status from the airline or airport app before you leave. Airports update arrivals and departures faster than third-party sites. If you see a delay flagged, confirm gate changes and boarding times — gates move more often than you'd think.

Before you go: simple checks that save time

Arrive early. For domestic flights aim for 90 minutes, for international aim for two to three hours. That gives you room for extra security lines and last-minute paperwork. Pack travel documents and boarding passes in an easy-to-reach pocket — fumbling at the gate adds stress.

Know your transport options. If major roads are affected by weather or protests, trains and airport shuttles often keep running. Have a backup plan: a ride-hailing app, local taxi number, or the nearest train schedule. If parking is needed, book it ahead; short-term lots fill fast at busy times.

Pack a small delay kit: refillable water bottle, portable charger, basic snacks, and a lightweight jacket. Airports may close shops in extreme weather or disturbances, so a little prep keeps you comfortable.

On-site: move faster and stay informed

Follow the airport's official social channels and turn on notifications. When storms hit or protests disrupt roads, airports post gate updates, terminal closures, and shuttle info. If you’re stuck, ask staff for a written time estimate — it helps when you call airlines or insurance.

Need to change flights? Head to the airline desk early. Online rebookings sometimes work, but front-line agents can offer standby options or put you on earlier connections. Keep receipts for extra costs like meals or overnight stays if you plan to claim them later.

If connections are tight, tell security and gate staff. They can sometimes help speed you through. For long layovers, use luggage storage if available so you can move without dragging bags through the terminal.

Accessibility matters. Most Terminal 1s have elevators, ramps, and priority lanes. Request assistance ahead of time from your airline — they often need advance notice to arrange pickup and faster routing through the terminal.

Finally, stay calm and keep essentials handy. Weather events like heavy snow or local protests can pile on delays, but a little planning — checking live updates, booking backup transport, and packing a delay kit — turns a bad day into a manageable one. Daily Africa Global News reports on major disruptions and travel impacts, so check our updates if you suspect wider problems affecting Terminal 1.

Got a specific concern about Terminal 1 or a recent delay? Tell us what happened and we’ll point you to the right resources and updates.