Download Newsflash – APRIL
Dubai Introduces New Baggage Policy
Dubai International Airport introduces a new baggage policy. Bags must now have at least one flat surface and those that do not comply will be rejected at check-in, including irregularly shaped and oversized items. The new baggage policy applies to all airlines operating from the airport in an effort to enhance the performance of check-in operations, improve services and reduce the risk of mishandling. Passengers who show up at the airport with non-compliant baggage will have the option to have it repacked in boxes at a fee. Bags that are round or do not have a flat surface of any kind are by far the largest source of baggage jams.
EU to Revoke Visa-free Travel for US Passport Holders
American travellers could need to apply for entry into the European Union after the European Parliament voted to revoke visa-free travel. This follows the US decision to deny visa-free travel for citizens from five EU countries Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Croatia. Parliament has given the European Commission two months to take legal action to enforce visas for American travellers to the EU. The South African Department of Home Affairs has indicated that visa-free travel for South Africans to the European Union is still in discussion with feedback expected in the next few months.
Airlink to Fly CPT-VIC Falls Direct
Airlink will launch direct flights from Cape Town to Victoria Falls from the 2nd of July. The airline will operate daily flights with the exception of Saturdays. Along with Kenya Airways, Airlink will be one of only two carriers offering direct services between the two destinations.
Zimbabwe Cash Shortage Continues
On any given day travellers in Zimbabwe may not be able to draw cash from their bank of choice as the ongoing ATM cash shortage continues in the country. Travellers to Zimbabwe are now being advised to bring along cash in US dollars as some banks do not have cash for the ATMs every day. Zimbabwe is currently experiencing a severe shortage of cash. It’s not currently possible to make cash withdrawals with an international bank card.
Malaria Warning for Botswana
The Ministry of Health and Wellness Botswana is warning that the country is experiencing a high level of malaria following the recent heavy rains. There have been increases in the number of cases in Okavango, Ngami, Chobe, Boteti, Tutume and Bobirwa. The Limpopo Health Department has also announced an increase in the number or reported malaria cases in the province particularly around Lephalale and Thabazimbi.
Electronics Banned on Flights
The US has implemented a temporary ban on electronic devices such as laptops and tablets from cabin baggage on flights from eight Middle Eastern and North African countries. The ban will apply to nonstop flights Eastern and North African countries. The ban will apply to nonstop flights to the US from 10 international airports and will affect nine airlines: Cairo in Egypt, Amman in Jordan, Kuwait City in Kuwait, Casablanca in Morocco, Doha in Qatar, Riyadh, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, Istanbul in Turkey, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The ban applies to all large electronic devices such as laptops, tablets cameras, DVD players and electronic games. Mobile phones and smartphones will still be allowed in carry-on luggage but anything larger such as laptops, cameras and tablets will only be permitted in checked luggage.
British Airways Changes Check-In Times
British Airways is advising their clients that the check-in times for long and short-haul flights from London Gatwick have changed. Travellers can check at least 60 minutes before departure in for long-haul flights and 45 minutes before departure for short-haul flights.
Nationwide Rail Strike in France
A nationwide rail strike is set to take place during Easter in France. French rail union CGT workers for the main train company in the country are planning a mass walkout and nationwide strike starting at 16h00 on Friday the 14th of April until 08h00 on Tuesday the 18th of April.
Meningitis Outbreak
An outbreak of meningitis has killed at least 140 people in several places in Nigeria. Travellers may want to receive a meningitis vaccination before heading to Nigeria.
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