Plan your flight to arrive at the Ben Shoeman Airport in East London (airport code ELS), before 2:00 PM on the first day of your service program. Plan your departure from East London for anytime after 12:00 PM on the final day of the program. This coordinated schedule will assist in assembling the team for transportation to the host community. Global Volunteers' schedule officially commences on the first Saturday of your service program with the evening meal. (You are responsible for your own expenses other than airport pick-up within the arrival window before the first evening meal.)
Will someone meet me at the airport?
Yes, provided you send your flight itinerary to Global Volunteers at least two weeks in advance of the service program arrival date. Your team leader will meet you within the prescribed arrival window, and will be displaying a Global Volunteers logo sign in the public area outside of Customs. You will travel with your team mates to the host community.
What should I do if my flight is delayed?
Please notify Global Volunteers as soon as you confirm your new arrival time so your team leader can arrange for your transportation to the hotel. If you make last-minute changes to your itinerary, or if you don't inform us of your flight plans, you must arrange your own transportation to the hotel or host community.
How late can I arrive in the host community?
Our orientation sessions are a critical component of the preparation for your assignments. If circumstances beyond your control prevent you from reaching the program on the opening day of the program, we require that you arrive no later than 9:00 AM on the following day so you can join your team for these sessions.
What should I do if I arrive before the scheduled arrival date?
If you choose to spend time in-country before the service program begins, please meet your team leader at the gateway airport within the prescribed arrival window on the first day of your service program.
