Urgent Intervention Ensures Fuel Supply for OR Tambo

A potential jet fuel shortage at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) has been successfully averted, thanks to a last-minute intervention following the temporary closure of the Natref Refinery.

The National Department of Transport confirmed that the “fuel headache has been resolved,” securing 121.1 million litres of jet fuel—more than enough to keep flights running smoothly until the refinery resumes production.

How the Fuel Supply Was Secured

The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) played a critical role in securing 50 million litres of jet fuel from multiple suppliers. Of this, 19 million litres were allocated to OR Tambo, with the remainder going to Natref. Meanwhile, the Department of Transport secured an additional 71.1 million litres, ensuring that JNB now has a surplus beyond its required 97.2 million litres.

To further ease demand, airlines have been encouraged to refuel at alternative airports, such as Durban and Cape Town, or implement tankering strategies to reduce reliance on OR Tambo’s reserves.

Fuel Imports and Logistics Plan

The additional fuel supply will arrive through the Port of Durban, with two key shipments expected on February 1 and February 10. Authorities are now finalizing a logistics plan to ensure seamless transport to the airport, preventing any disruption to airline operations.

Meanwhile, Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) is working with the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources to build a strategic fuel reserve, safeguarding against future delays, diversions, or unexpected demand surges.

This swift intervention ensures that OR Tambo remains fully operational, keeping South Africa’s busiest airport and its global connections running smoothly.

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