Jet Fuel Shortage at O.R. Tambo: 121.1M Litres Secured
South African government secures jet fuel supply for ORTIA following industry meeting.
South Africa’s National Department of Transport announced on January 26, 2025, that the fuel industry and its stakeholders secured 121.1 million litres, addressing the jet fuel shortage at O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) until the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery reopens at the end of February 2025.
Addressing Jet Fuel Shortages at ORTIA
The National Department of Transport noted, “Following an urgent meeting convened by the Minister of Transport, Ms Barbara Creecy, on January 24, 2025, relevant fuel industry stakeholders worked together to resolve impending jet fuel shortages.”
Attendees included the Airport Company South Africa (ACSA), the Fuel Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA), and SASOL. The goal was to ensure a continuous jet fuel supply and avoid disruptions at ORTIA in February 2025.
Collaboration to Secure Jet Fuel Supply
The anticipated fuel shortages were caused by a fire at the NATREF refinery on January 4, 2025, which temporarily shut down operations.
“Airlines made alternative arrangements to secure fuel at Windhoek, King Shaka Airport, and other locations, causing inconvenience to passengers and crew,” shared the National Department of Transport.
The National Department of Transport reported, “On January 20, 2025, the fuel industry informed ACSA that 50 million litres of jet fuel from various suppliers had been secured.” By January 24, an additional 71.1 million litres were secured, totalling 121.1 million.
Transporting Jet Fuel Supply From February 1, 2025
The fuel will be imported through the Port of Durban via three vessels expected to arrive on February 1 and February 10, 2025.
The National Department of Transport stated, “A logistics plan to ensure the imported fuel supply moves from the Port of Durban to OR Tambo in time for airline needs was agreed upon.”
Fuel Reserve and Safety Buffer for OR Tambo
Parties also agreed on building a fuel reserve to serve as a critical safety buffer for unforeseen circumstances such as delays, diversions, or unexpected changes in flight conditions.
The National Department of Transport noted, “ACSA will engage the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.”
Minister Creecy expressed her appreciation to passengers, businesses, and stakeholders for their patience during this period of difficulty and apologised for the inconvenience caused.
