OR Tambo International
A Journey Through Time
1952 — 2006
1950s
1952
Jan Smuts Airport opened in 1952 in Kempton Park, replacing the old Palmietfontein airport. It was South Africa's first purpose-built international airport.
1990s
1994
After the end of apartheid and international sanctions, the airport experienced a surge in international traffic as airlines resumed service to South Africa, reconnecting the country to the world.
2000s
2006
The airport was renamed OR Tambo International Airport in honour of Oliver Tambo, a leader of the anti-apartheid movement. A new Central Terminal Building opened ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Present