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Taxi drivers’ strike causes Cape Town airport disruption

British travellers to South Africa has been warned about potentially violent strikes which could affect transport to and from Cape Town airport.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued the alert on Saturday and updated its travel advice again today (Monday).

The revision came after minibus taxi drivers announced a week-long strike in Cape Town in a dispute with authorities.

Protests have forced the closure of the approach road to the airport.


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The strike has also affected staff trying to get to work at the airport.

Cape Town airport said in a Twitter update on Saturday: “We are currently experiencing long waiting times at the airport security points due to staffing constraints. 

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Passengers are advised to arrive 4 hours earlier for international departures and 2 hours earlier for domestic departure.“  

The FCDO said: “There are currently ongoing strikes in the Cape Town area. Strike action is currently blocking the N2 and other major routes to and from Cape Town airport.

“You should consider delaying your travel to and from the airport until the route is cleared. GPS services could divert you into less secure areas or into ongoing protests.

“Carefully monitor local news and social media and follow the advice of local authorities.

“These strikes have the potential to turn violent and may impact multiple areas including journeys to and from the airport.

“Please check for any disruption on your route before travelling, avoid violent protests and try to stick to major routes.

“Where safer to do so, consider delaying your journey and, if possible, seek advice from a trusted local source, such as your hotel or travel provider.

“You can find up to date information from Cape Town Airport’s twitter feed and the City of Cape Town feed.”

More: Virgin Atlantic to start pilot pay talks as union weighs up strike action

Luton airport cleaners threaten strike action in pay row

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