I am using Air 2000 when I arrive in Johannesburg on my first ever African adventure in less than 2 weeks. My question is two fold. Do I need Air 2000 the following day for a connecting flight to East London? Do I need them at the end of the safari when leaving Johannesburg for home?

I am a newbie here and have only been watching this site for about 3 weeks. This is an outstanding site and tremendous resource. I have learned sooooooo much already. Thanks to all!!!!!

Doug

DPS,

Once you have the permits, you'll be fine. Last time I was making a connection in RSA, AIR2000 walked me to the domestic connecting counter and helped me through it all (2004).

On the return flight, just make sure that you have your permit papers and tell the ticket agent that you have guns. They'll check all your bags, and then you'll have to take the gun case to a security office, where they'll check your permits, etc., and take your bags. atleast that's the way I remember it. I had to do this in after making the flight from the interior to the internaional airport (at that time I was flying back from Capetown).

Might want to check with the gate agent make sure that the guns are on board the plane, right before boarding.

Also be sure to get a 4457 form for the guns so that it will make it easy to clear customs, stateside. But you probably already have that.

-Steve

On leaving JNB, we checked in and had our luggage searched, but not the tuffpaks. Then the ever helpful porters took us(for a fee) to the security office to check the firearms. Just make sure you have all your copies of the import permits you recieved when you arrived.
I gave the porters 5 rand, wsat the hell they have to eat too!!!

Dulcinea

P.S. Don't go anywhere without your 4457's.

By the way relax and enjoy, the first time is the best!!! Take more pics and video than you think you need. You will be glad you did!!!

Dulcinea

63 days and counting, slowly.

Hi Doug, if your using Air2000/Hunters Support, they are known as a "meet and greet" service. You should have received confirmation that they will have your SAPS application ready when you get off the plane. One of their agents will greet you as you walk off the exit ramp. They will be holding a sign with your name on it. Make sure you have their local phone number just in case. They will escort you through all steps: baggage pick up, Customs counter and the Police Station. Once your guns are entered into the books, you will receive your Temporary Gun Import permit. MAKE POSITIVE you have the correct arrival and depart date on the SAPS application. If it is wrong, you could have a problem. Email Air2000 to advise them you will be staying overnight and catching the next days flight to EL. Most likely they will have someone there for you the next morning. I had my guns checked direct from here at home to Bulawayo two months ago. We spent the night in the Airport Hotel and left the next morning for Bulawayo. No problems and I didn't have to get a SAPS permit as I never touched my guns or checked baggage. However, in your case, your hunting in RSA, so you'll need the permit. Advise Air2000 of your departure date and flight number. They will meet you again and assist you with departure. In case any problems come up, they are there to help you and worth every cent. As for a tip, I recommend giving $10 (73 Rand), but that's up to you. Have a great trip and good hunting, LDK

I just had my first experience with air 2000. I had sent in my application for a rifle permit through my PH who uses air 2000 and wanted to add a shotgun since I have the opportunity to shoot birds also. It couldn't have been easier. I emailed them, they contacted me and had me send the 4457 for the shotgun. They will be able to add it to my original application and the permit will be waiting when I arrive. Couldn't have been easier, sent the 4457 by US postal global mail which takes 4 to 5 days. They will notify me that it has arrived. These folks are easy to work with and very accommadating.