Flying with Weed in SA: What You Need To Know
With the decriminalization of personal cannabis use and cultivation in South Africa finally being solidified in 2024, many people are still wondering about the legal status of flying with cannabis domestically within the country.
The short answer is that it’s complicated, but generally allowed in small amounts.
It is however essential to understand the nuances of the law and the individual discretion of airlines to ensure a smooth travel experience. Let’s dive a little deeper:
The Legal Status of Cannabis in South Africa
In 2018, the Constitutional Court of South Africa ruled that the personal use and cultivation of cannabis is no longer a criminal offense and after 6 years in 2024 the bill was passed and solidified. Adults are allowed to possess, use, and grow cannabis in private for their own personal consumption. However, this ruling does not extend to public spaces or transportation, including airports and airplanes necessarily…
According to a South African Police Service directive issued, passengers are allowed to carry small amounts of cannabis on domestic flights, provided that:
- The quantity of cannabis is small and reasonably obvious for personal consumption only
- The passenger is an adult (18+ years)
- The cannabis is concealed in the passenger’s carry on bag or luggage
- There is no indication or objects to indicate that the passenger may smoke cannabis while onboard.
It’s crucial to note that this directive does not apply to international flights, as bringing cannabis or any other drug related paraphernalia into or out of South Africa remains a criminal offense no matter your final destination.
Tips for Flying with Cannabis in South Africa
Understand your rights: Familiarize yourself with the current laws and regulations regarding cannabis possession and use in South Africa.
Check airline policies: Contact your airline or visit their website to understand their specific stance on carrying cannabis on flights.
Keep quantities small: Ensure that the amount of cannabis you carry is small and can be reasonably considered for personal consumption.
Conceal your cannabis: Keep your cannabis concealed, and avoid displaying it publicly in the airport.
Consider alternatives: If you’re unsure about flying with cannabis or want to avoid potential issues, consider getting it locally at your new destination or sending your supply to your destination via a 420-friendly courier service.
Don’t consume on the plane: Refrain at all times from smoking or consuming cannabis on the plane, as this is still strictly prohibited and could result in serious consequences.
Our recommendation:
Our recommendation is that you don’t travel with any form of cannabis at all and to try to source it locally, just to avoid any unnecessary trouble of course. But let’s be clear – it is perfectly legal in small amounts as long as you travel domestically within the boundaries of South Africa. We recommend you keep your cannabis under 10 grams and that you double wrap it and conceal it properly. If possible you should put it in your carry on luggage so that you are personally present to defend yourself if any issue arises. Make sure there is no smell present and transport it as if it is still illegal, but know your laws.
Conclusion
While it is legal to fly with small amounts of cannabis for personal consumption on domestic flights within South Africa, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of the law and the discretion of individual airlines. It is not always worth it in our opinion so always research your airline’s policies, keep quantities small and concealed, and always avoid consuming cannabis on the plane even if it is edibles.
If you’re unsure about flying with cannabis or want to avoid potential issues, consider alternative methods such as sending your supply via courier or purchasing it legally at your destination.
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