From the experience of repacking bags, I know that the worst spot to learn your airline's baggage policy is at the airport - for your convenience here is British Airways Comair's policy. And a little tip if you're struggling to make the weight limit - wear your heaviest clothes and shoes!

BA Comair baggage policy

Customers travelling on British Airways Comair flights are entitled to a Free Checked Baggage Allowance restricted by number of pieces determined by Cabin and Traveller type. The checked bag is restricted to dimensions of 90cm(L) x 75cm (W) x 43cm (H) and 23kg in weight. Bags that weigh more than 23kg but less than 32kg will be charged a Heavy Bag Charge. Bags that weigh more than 32kg must be transported as cargo. Bags carried in addition to the Free Checked Baggage Allowance will be charged an Extra Bag Fee.

For full details on checked baggage items please refer to www.ba.com (which are also the official details, in cases of differences with the above)

Hand Baggage: Restricted to 1 piece per customer (weighing no more than 7kg with dimensions 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (115cm) + handbag or laptop or briefcase. 

LOFO (Last On First Off): LOFO bags will no longer be permitted onboard BA Comair flights. Customers who exceed their hand baggage allowance (weight, size or pieces) will be referred back to check-in to check this baggage in and will pay any applicable fees. This may result in the customer being offloaded and any expenses incurred will be at the expense of the customer. In the event that Comair carries hand baggage in the aircraft hold due to unforeseen circumstances then all valuables must be removed from the baggage as Comair does not accept liability for loss of valuables carried in checked baggage as per Comair’s Conditions of Carriage.

How much profit are airlines making out of you? I did a calculation, and over the period from 2004 to 2011 1time airline's average profit margin has been 0.3%

It takes a brave man to invest in the airline industry in South Africa.

I have mixed feelings about St Helena island getting an airport - it'll make it easier to get there, but destroy the feeling of magnificent isolation. Flights are planned between Johannesburg Lanseria Airport and St Helena Island. Initially one flight a week is planned and then up to 4 a week. The airport will be managed by Lanseria (why didn't they hire ACSA?)

If you visit, be sure to climb Jacob's Ladder, visit their beach with black volcanic sand, try their golf course and go on many walks.

The island has strong South African connections - many Boer War prisoners were interned there as was Dinuzulu kaCetshway (a Zulu King), and when I was there, their favourite drink seemed to be Castle Lager.

Shosholoza Meyl train prices for 2012 are not available yet.

Note that Intercape do not allow animals on their buses, save for guide dogs.