Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) is the only airport near Grahamstown.

You’ll find 3 airlines that operate on the route to Grahamstown. These fly in from at least 3 airports across the globe.

In general, travelers opt to fly with Airlink (South Africa), Safair and British Airways when going to Grahamstown. The largest number of these flights originate in Beitbridge, with Airlink (South Africa) servicing this route the most.

With 157 nonstop flights each week, you’ll be arriving in Grahamstown before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers frequently set off from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban North airports when going to Makhanda.

Which city you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you’ll get to enjoy. From Johannesburg to Grahamstown, the average flight time is 1 hour and 39 minutes. From Cape Town it’s roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes, and from Durban North it’s 1 hour and 24 minutes.

If you want to save some cash on your Grahamstown vacation, then listen up! As any seasoned traveler will tell you, avoid booking at the last minute. Airfares are usually more expensive close to the departure date. Another easy way to pick up a bargain is to shop around. If where you’re headed has more than one airport, look into the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, another easy way to save some cash is be ready to book at a moment’s notice. If you spot a fantastic deal, don’t think twice — grab it while the opportunity’s there.

We’ve got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you’ll be breezing through airport security and exploring Grahamstown in no time at all.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It’s easy — first, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you’ll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you’ll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Always go with flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. The great news is there are ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander around the cabin as much as you can and wear compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you’ll be stepping onto that plane to Grahamstown in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren’t.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.