Breastfeeding at Airports: What South African Parents Should Know

Major airports in South Africa operate lounges and passenger services that accommodate travellers with infants, and many have dedicated nursing or baby‑care rooms. South African Airways lists lounges at Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo), Cape Town, Durban (King Shaka) and Gqeberha. It also notes services for travellers with young children. Independent guides and airport pages list multiple lounges and family facilities across terminals at O.R. Tambo and other hubs. O.R. Tambo specifically has multiple nursing rooms (reported as six) available for breastfeeding or pumping mothers. Cape Town and other Airports Company South Africa-managed  (ACSA‑managed) airports also advertise family‑friendly passenger services and baby facilities.

Pictures taken at O.R. Thambo – the room was clean, neat and ready for a mom who needs privacy and facilities.

What Lounges Typically Allow and How They Support Breastfeeding

Airport lounges generally allow breastfeeding and will provide a private or quieter space on request. However, the exact amenities (armchairs, privacy screens, sinks, fridge access for expressed milk) differ by operator. If you hold lounge access through an airline or membership, contact the lounge ahead of travel to confirm private space, fridge access and staff assistance. Airlines have special‑assistance desks that often arrange help for passengers travelling with infants.

Legal Framework and Workplace/Public Breastfeeding Rights

South African law and guidance protect breastfeeding and encourage workplace and public accommodation. National resources and advocacy guides outline employer responsibilities for breastfeeding breaks, private spaces for expressing milk, and supportive workplace policies. These should be summarised in practical guides for employers and employees. Public breastfeeding is permitted, and employers and service providers are encouraged to provide reasonable facilities and time for nursing or expressing milk.

Practical considerations, limitations and risks

• Facilities vary by terminal and operator – not every lounge or gate area will have a nursing room, so assume limited availability during peak times.
• Security and boarding rules – allow extra time for feeding or pumping before going through security checks and boarding processes. Liquid rules for expressed milk may require declaration at security.
• Storage and hygiene – Not all lounges provide refrigeration for breastmilk, and it will be good to ask staff for guidance or carry an insulated cooler if needed.

Recommendations for breastfeeding mothers travelling

• Plan: Check the airport’s facilities page and your airline’s special‑assistance options before travel.
• Contact lounges in advance: Confirm whether private space, fridge access, or a quiet corner is available.
• Pack smart: Bring a small, insulated cooler, spare nursing cover, portable pump (with battery or travel adaptor), extra breast pads and sanitising wipes.
• Allow extra time: Arrive earlier to locate facilities and pass security without stress.
• Know your rights: Be prepared to request reasonable accommodation and, if needed, ask airline staff or airport information desks for assistance.

ALSO READ: Travel Plug Guide: What to Pack This Holiday Season

Sources:

• FlySAA South African Airways
• Simple Flying
• FlySAA South African Airways
• Moms Pump Here
• Mywage.co.za
• Side-by-Side
• Airports Company South Africa
• capetowninternationalairport.co.za