ACSA responds to OR Tambo fuel shortage

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is working closely with industry partners to address a potential jet fuel shortage at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) following a fire at the Natref refinery on Saturday (4 January 2025).

Malcolm Libera – BusinessTech

The incident, which damaged the refinery’s Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), has raised concerns about maintaining a steady fuel supply to one of Africa’s busiest airports.

The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) has informed ACSA that immediate risk mitigation measures are being implemented to prevent disruptions.

While the damaged CDU is expected to be operational again by 21 February 2025, interim steps are being taken to bridge the supply gap.

Scheduled fuel deliveries and increased rail transport from Durban and Matola in Mozambique are among the measures being prioritised.

Sourcing fuel from alternative airports and direct injections to Natref are also part of the plan.

On Sunday (12 January), a jet fuel delivery of 17,000 cubic meters arrived at ORTIA, providing critical reserves. Another 31,000 cubic meters are set to be injected into the pipeline from Durban on Tuesday (14 January), with delivery to ORTIA expected by Monday (27 January).

ACSA has reassured stakeholders that it currently has reserves to maintain jet fuel availability at ORTIA until Monday (20 January).

However, with the anticipated gap between 20 January and the expected pipeline delivery on 27 January, collaborative efforts are in full swing to prevent disruptions.

ACSA is working with FIASA, Natref, and other industry players to finalise solutions by 14 January.

This coordinated approach aims to ensure continuous operations at the airport and prevent any disruptions to flights.

Rail deliveries have been prioritised to bolster jet fuel volumes, with additional capacity being made available from Durban and Matola.

These efforts are complemented by alternative fuel-sourcing strategies, including using fuel reserves from other airports and optimising direct injections to Natref.

ACSA has emphasised that these measures are designed to mitigate risks and maintain operational stability at ORTIA during this challenging period.

In addition to logistical adjustments, ACSA has reaffirmed its commitment to transparent communication.

Passengers, airlines, and all other stakeholders have been assured that normal airport operations will continue without disruption.

The company’s proactive stance highlights its dedication to ensuring a secure and reliable jet fuel supply at ORTIA, even under unforeseen circumstances.

Regular updates will be provided as the situation evolves, with the next key developments expected to be outlined on 14 January.

The Airports Company South Africa has expressed confidence in its ability to navigate this temporary crisis and maintain OR Tambo International Airport’s status as a pivotal hub for air travel in Africa.

Stakeholders can rest assured that every possible measure is being taken to safeguard uninterrupted operations and maintain passenger confidence during this period of recovery and adjustment.