Expert: Roberto Gomes - 8/2/2008

Question
I am flying from Dubai to Singapore via South Africa. The first leg is DXB-JNB
with Emirates arriving about 1030AM.
The second leg from JNB-SIN is with Singapore Air and leaves at about 1330.
The flights have been booked  separately, directly with each airline.
How can I transfer without going through customs, immigration etc. Can I
avoid departure tax at JNB?

Answer
Dear Mike,

International arrivals and departures at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) take place at Terminal A.

When checking-in with Emirates in Dubai, just ask the staff to tag you baggage to your final destination SIN and show them your confirmed reservation for the JNB-SIN leg.

When arriving at JNB, ask Emirates staff to direct you to the international transit desk, where you'll must look for Singapore staff (don't know if they are available - if you had time try to contact SQ in DXB or try to check using internet) to check you in for the JNB-SIN leg. Show SQ your baggage claim check to allow them to ask EK to transfer your bag.

Since you bought two different tickets, there is no way not to collect the JNB departing tax.

Hope this helps.
Best Regards,
R. Gomes