OR Tambo parking service ‘First Class Parking’ is redefining convenience

For many Johannesburg travellers, parking at OR Tambo International Airport has long been part of the pre-flight stress. Over the years, a growing number of private operators have tried to fix that problem, but one company is claiming a clear edge.

First Class Parking founder Thenjiwe Shezi says her business is the only accredited parking service with vehicles stored inside the airport precinct.

“If you’re leaving your car at the airport, you can only find it within the airport premises,” she said. “That saves fuel and reduces the risk of accidents on the road.”

Parking — and a lot more

What sets First Class Parking apart is not just where the cars are kept, but what happens to them while owners are away.

Beyond standard valet parking, the service offers interior and exterior cleaning, polishing, and minor bodywork repairs through a long-standing partner panel beater operating at the airport.

“Imagine leaving your car thinking you are only parking, but we give you a quote for minor scratches or dents while you’re away,” Shezi explained.

For short trips, the turnaround can be quick. “If you’ve just gone to Durban and you’re back, a full valet can be done within a day.”

Groceries, laundry and time saved

Some of the most popular extras have little to do with cars at all.

Travellers can email a grocery list before returning, with items collected on the day of arrival. “We follow instructions,” Shezi said. “You can’t buy bananas on the first day and expect them to last.”

The company has also offered dry cleaning and even shoe repairs, with clothing returned and hung in the vehicle before collection.

By design, the service is meant to eliminate unnecessary steps. Drop-off is near domestic departures; on return, vehicles are handed back at level four, just steps from the terminal.

“You don’t need to look for your car; you don’t need to pass by the supermarket. Everything is ready.”

From day trips to month-long stays

While many customers park for a day or two, others leave vehicles for weeks or longer.

Some corporate clients store cars for executives who regularly travel between Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, avoiding repeated rentals. Government departments, law firms and travel agencies also make up a significant share of the client base.

Bookings are handled online, with automatic confirmations and invoices, a small detail that matters to procurement and finance teams.

“If you park longer, you earn more discounts,” Shezi said, noting that short stays carry higher daily rates.

A seasonal business — with surprises

Like most airport services, demand rises sharply during holidays, especially December and June.

But there are surprises too.

“September is actually our busiest time,” Shezi said. “Everyone is trying to catch up before the year ends.”

Between school terms and business travel cycles, activity ebbs and flows, but the airport, she notes, never really sleeps.

As competition grows around OR Tambo, First Class Parking is betting that travellers aren’t just looking for a place to leave their cars; they want their time back.

For more details, listen to Shezi using the audio player below: