The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) has informed Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) that the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) is implementing risk mitigation measures to prevent the disruption of the supply of jet fuel to O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) following the fire that occurred at their refinery on 4 January 2025.
The fuel industry has been told industry that the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) damaged by the fire is expected to be back online by 21 February 2025.
ACSA Reserves and NATREF Mitigation
ACSA is happy to indicate that it has reserves to ensure the continuity of jet fuel availability at ORTIA for up to eight days up to 20 January 2025.
At the same time, the fuel suppliers have said it is seeking to implement the following mitigation measures:
- Scheduled Fuel Deliveries: A jet fuel delivery of 17,000m³ is expected to arrive by Sunday, 12 January 2025 at ORTIA.
- Pipeline Injection: A planned injection of 31,000m³ from Durban is set for 14 January 2025, with delivery to ORTIA expected by 27 January 2025.
- Increased Rail Deliveries: Rail deliveries from Durban and Matola (Mozambique) are being prioritised, with additional capacity available to support increased jet fuel volumes and
- Alternative Fuel Sourcing: Sourcing fuel from other airports and direct injections to NATREF.
Immediate intervention and risk mitigation measures are required to address the anticipated jet fuel shortage at ORTIA between 20 January and the expected delivery date of 27 January 2025.
The Fuel Industry Association of Southern Africa (FIASA) and NATREF are collaborating with industry partners, including ACSA, to develop solutions by Tuesday, 14 January 2025. The primary focus is to ensure the continuous availability of jet fuel at ORTIA.
Airlines, passengers, and all stakeholders are assured that all necessary steps are being taken to maintain normal airport operations and guarantee a secure and uninterrupted fuel supply.
ACSA is committed to transparent communication and will continue to closely monitor the situation. An update will be provided on Tuesday, 14 January 2025. For the latest information, please refer to the ACSA App. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
