Jet fuel supplies at one of the busiest airports in Africa are dwindling due to additional delays in deliveries, as reported by South Africa’s state-controlled airports company on Saturday. Airports Company SA (ACSA) did not provide details on the specific causes of the delay at Cape Town International Airport but acknowledged being informed by jet fuel suppliers about the situation.
ACSA stated, “ACSA has been working closely with airlines to reduce uplift out of Cape Town, and due to the added risks has had to introduce further restrictions on fuel uplift to conserve fuel stocks until a new consignment of jet fuel arrives.” While there is currently no disruption to scheduled flights, the airports company, based on a risk assessment report, has requested airlines to consider technical stops at alternative airports to refuel.
The statement indicated that these measures are being taken to manage the situation until a new shipment of jet fuel is received. As of now, it appears that the delays in jet fuel deliveries are creating challenges in maintaining the regular supply needed for aircraft operations.
There was no immediate comment from South Africa’s petroleum industry body, SAPIA, which represents major oil producers. The shortage of jet fuel at a key airport could potentially impact airline operations and necessitate adjustments in flight planning to ensure adequate fuel availability for flights departing from Cape Town International Airport.