ZA
AIRPORT
JNB
WORLD RANK
#101

Johannesburg

O.R. Tambo International Airport

FAOR
260
Flights/Day
02:21
Local Time
Johannesburg
Timezone
5,558ft
Elevation
Flying from Johannesburg?

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Current Weather
Current Conditions
FAOR
VFR
8°C
Clear • 4kt • 1031.00"
Observed: 00:00 UTC
VFR — Visual Flight Rules: Clear conditions, no weather delays expected.
Cloud Forecast
12k 8k 4k 0
20:00
CLR
04:00 BECMG
1k
06:00 TEMPO
0.5k
08:00 BECMG
CLR
18:00 BECMG
CLR
Few (1-2 oktas) Scattered (3-4) Broken (5-7) Overcast (8) | CLR = Clear 25k = 25,000 ft ceiling
FM = From (abrupt change) BECMG = Becoming (gradual) TEMPO = Temporary PROB = Probability %
TAF valid until 02:00 local time
About O.R. Tambo International Airport

Johannesburg's high altitude (5,558 ft) creates afternoon thermal turbulence. The Highveld location brings summer thunderstorms.

Is Johannesburg Airport turbulent?

Johannesburg's highveld location creates a predictable summer thunderstorm pattern. Hot afternoons trigger violent storms that roll across the plateau, producing heavy rain, lightning, and turbulence. These storms develop rapidly and can turn a sunny morning into a weather-delayed afternoon. Winter (May-August) is dry and offers much calmer flying conditions.

  • Summer afternoon thunderstorms are nearly daily occurrences
  • Storms develop rapidly in the afternoon heat
  • Highveld elevation (1,700m) affects aircraft performance
What causes Johannesburg thunderstorms?

The highveld plateau heats up intensely during summer days, causing warm air to rise rapidly. When moisture is present, this triggers explosive thunderstorm development, typically between 2-6 PM. The storms can be violent but usually pass within an hour. The pattern is so predictable that experienced travelers book morning flights.

When is the best time to fly from Johannesburg?

Winter (May-August) is dry season with clear skies and minimal weather delays. Morning flights year-round avoid afternoon thunderstorm activity. Summer (October-April) brings daily storms, so depart before noon if possible. The shoulder seasons (April, September) offer pleasant weather with fewer storms than peak summer.

Is turbulence at Johannesburg dangerous?

No. Modern aircraft are designed to withstand forces far stronger than turbulence. While bumps can feel uncomfortable, they do not pose a safety risk. Pilots actively avoid rough air whenever possible. Learn more about turbulence

Best seats to reduce turbulence when flying from Johannesburg?

Seats near the wings feel the least movement because they are closest to the aircraft's center of gravity. Seats at the back of the aircraft feel turbulence more strongly. Learn more about seat selection

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