ACSA Implements Emergency Measures to Address OR Tambo Jet Fuel Shortage

The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) has announced emergency measures to address a potential jet fuel shortage at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) following a fire at the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery on 4 January 2025.

Jet Fuel Supply Assurance

In a statement on Sunday, ACSA confirmed that it has jet fuel reserves to maintain operations at ORTIA for up to eight days, covering the period up to 20 January 2025. Scheduled fuel deliveries and pipeline injections are also underway to ensure continuity.

Impact of the Refinery Fire

The fire at NATREF affected the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), which is now expected to be operational again by 21 February 2025. To prevent supply disruptions, the Fuel Industry Association of Southern Africa (FIASA) and ACSA are collaborating with NATREF on several mitigation strategies.

Key Mitigation Measures

To bridge the supply gap, the following measures have been implemented:

• Scheduled Fuel Deliveries: A shipment of 17,000m³ of jet fuel was set to arrive by 12 January 2025, with a pipeline injection of 31,000m³ from Durban expected to reach ORTIA by 27 January 2025.
• Increased Rail Deliveries: Fuel deliveries via rail from Durban and Matola, Mozambique, have been prioritised to accommodate increased volumes.
• Alternative Fuel Sourcing: Additional fuel is being sourced from other airports and directly injected into NATREF.

Industry Collaboration

FIASA, NATREF, and other industry stakeholders are working together to implement immediate solutions. By Tuesday, 14 January 2025, further updates and strategies will be shared to address the anticipated shortage between 20 January and 27 January.

ACSA’s Commitment

ACSA has assured airlines, passengers, and stakeholders that every effort is being made to maintain uninterrupted airport operations. Transparent communication will continue throughout this period, with regular updates provided.

The proactive measures taken by ACSA and its partners demonstrate a strong commitment to mitigating the impact of the jet fuel shortage at OR Tambo International Airport. As efforts to restore supply continue, airlines and passengers can expect regular updates on the situation.

An update from ACSA is expected on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, providing further details on the status of fuel availability and ongoing mitigation measures.

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