An early warning system is being developed to address simultaneous flight arrivals and departures, allowing additional resources to be deployed efficiently Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) and the Border Management Authority (BMA) say they have implemented measures to manage the surge in passenger traffic during the festive season.In a joint media briefing on Thursday (19 December), Acsa CEO Mpumi Mpofu and BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato detailed interventions to ensure seamless travel at OR Tambo International Airport and other ports of entry.Mpofu confirmed that last weeks jet fuel disruption, caused by a shattered drive shaft, has been resolved. A new valve has been installed, and the system is functioning at normal pressure. The results of laboratory tests to determine the root cause of the issue are expected soon.Mpofu also apologised for delays experienced at immigration points on Saturday (14 December) due to technical issues with the BMAs biometric movement control system.I wish to express our sincere apologies for the inconvenience [of] the delays and queues caused by BMA technological challenges last week. We really appreciate the publics understanding and cooperation during this busy period and Acsa and BMA are addressing the technological challenges until the system is replaced in 2025.Acsa is expecting 119 696 international and 262 108 domestic passengers to pass through its airports between 19 and 24 December, with the busiest day forecast for 20 December. Acsa and BMA are also preparing for high passenger volumes in early January when holidaymakers return.To streamline operations, a technical committee comprising representatives from Acsa, BMA, the South African Police Service, the South African Revenue Service and other stakeholders is addressing airport-related risks through a collaborative approach.Passengers are advised to arrive three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights.Travellers are encouraged to check airline terms and conditions, monitor flight notifications, and prepare for potential delays.Masiapato highlighted the importance of collaboration between Acsa and the BMA in managing border operations at 71 ports of entry, including OR Tambo International Airport.An early warning system is being developed to address simultaneous flight arrivals and departures, allowing additional resources to be deployed efficiently. Staffing levels have also been increased at critical points to enhance immigration processing during peak periods.The two organisations ask that travellers remain patient and cooperative as they continue to address the challenges of high holiday traffic.