Ensuring Continuous Jet Fuel Supply at O.R. Tambo Airport

Johannesburg – Fuel suppliers have put in place risk mitigation strategies to ensure that the jet fuel supply to O.R. Tambo International Airport remains uninterrupted after a fire incident at their refinery.

The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) announced that the Fuels Industry Association of South Africa has informed them that the National Petroleum Refiners SA (NATREF) is taking steps to prevent any disruption in the supply of jet fuel.

The fire occurred on 4 January 2025.

The Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) that was affected by the fire is expected to resume operations by 21 February 2025.

In a statement released on Sunday, 12 January 2025, ACSA expressed its satisfaction in announcing that it has sufficient reserves to guarantee the availability of jet fuel at O.R. Tambo International Airport for up to eight days, until 20 January 2025.

Fuel suppliers are planning to implement the following mitigation strategies:

• Scheduled Fuel Deliveries: A delivery of 17,000m³ of jet fuel is anticipated to arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport by Sunday, 12 January 2025.
• Pipeline Injection: A planned injection of 31,000m³ from Durban is scheduled for 14 January 2025, with delivery to O.R. Tambo International Airport expected by 27 January 2025.
• Increased Rail Deliveries: Rail deliveries from Durban and Matola (Mozambique) are being prioritized, with extra capacity available to meet the demand for increased jet fuel volumes.
• Alternative Fuel Sourcing: Fuel will be sourced from other airports, along with direct injections to NATREF.

“Immediate intervention and risk mitigation measures are essential to address the projected jet fuel shortage at O.R. Tambo International Airport between 20 January and the anticipated delivery date of 27 January 2025,” stated ACSA.

The Fuel Industry Association of Southern Africa and NATREF are working in collaboration with industry partners, including ACSA, to devise solutions by Tuesday, 14 January 2025.

“The primary objective is to ensure the continuous availability of jet fuel at O.R. Tambo International Airport,” ACSA stated.

“Airlines, passengers, and all stakeholders can be reassured that all necessary measures are being taken to uphold normal airport operations and guarantee a secure and steady fuel supply.

“ACSA is dedicated to maintaining transparent communication and will continue to monitor the situation closely.”

For the latest updates, please refer to the ACSA App.

“We value your understanding and cooperation,” ACSA remarked.