Zouérate Airport may not be among the busiest airports, averaging just one flight per day. These flights typically involve small to medium-sized aircraft such as the Embraer ERJ-145, Embraer E-175, Boeing 737-500, Boeing 737-700, and Boeing 737-800. However, this scenario could soon change following the recent decision to issue a tender for the construction of a new kerosene depot at Zouérate Airport. The tender for this project has been issued by the Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM) and DME – Direction des Marchés et de l’Externalisation.
The initial phase of the project will focus on assessing the feasibility and compliance of the proposed plans. This includes validating the storage capacity to ensure it meets operational needs and reviewing the layout plan for the depot, particularly the design and length of the underground hydrant network. Contractors will be required to ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and secure the necessary permits before construction can begin.
The construction phase offers two design options for the depot, each addressing different logistical and operational requirements. The bidder will need to determine the most suitable option, considering contract conditions, cost, and the extreme weather in Zouérate, where temperatures range between 30 °C and 40 °C. Consequently, the materials used must comply with international standards for fuel transfer and aircraft refuelling in challenging environments.
Depot with a Hydrant Circuit
This option involves constructing a kerosene storage depot with a capacity of 120 tonnes. An underground hydrant network to connect the depot to the aircraft parking area, enabling efficient fuel delivery. To support this system, a mobile refuelling unit (oleo server) will need to be acquired, allowing seamless refuelling via the hydrant network. Additionally, a truck with adequate capacity would need to be procured to transport fuel to the depot from Nouakchott or Nouadhibou by train. All necessary accessories to complete the system will also need to be provided.
Depot without a Hydrant Circuit
This option features containerised tanks with a total capacity of 100 m³. Fuel distribution would then be managed using a fuel tanker truck. Similar to the first option, a truck with sufficient capacity will be required to transport fuel to the depot from Nouakchott or Nouadhibou by train. As with the first design, all essential accessories for the depot’s functionality must be provided.
Either option should offer effective and reliable kerosene storage and distribution at Zouérate Airport, catering to its specific operational needs. The final decision will depend on project feasibility, cost considerations, and logistical requirements.
Initially, the tender was set to close on 10 January. However, the deadline has been extended to 31 January. For further details, please consult our opportunities section.
