Business
7 Days of Jet Fuel Left at OR Tambo – What You Need to Know About the Crisis

OR Tambo International Airport is facing a critical jet fuel shortage that could disrupt air travel across South Africa. Here’s everything you need to know about the situation, how it affects you, and the steps being taken to mitigate the impact.
Jet Fuel Crisis at OR Tambo Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, the busiest airport in South Africa, is grappling with an urgent jet fuel shortage following a fire at the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery on 4 January 2025. This incident has led to significant disruptions in fuel production, with reserves currently running low.
Current Fuel Reserves:
- Jet fuel remaining: 27.1 million litres
- Daily consumption rate: 3.6 million litres
- Projected exhaustion date: 2 February 2025
This leaves the airport with just seven days of fuel supply remaining, sparking widespread concern over how the airport and airlines will manage the fuel shortage in the coming weeks.
What’s Being Done to Address the Shortage?
The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has been actively coordinating with several partners to manage the situation. Some of the key measures being taken include:
- Collaboration with industry stakeholders: ACSA is working with the Fuels Industry Association of Southern Africa (FIASA), NATREF, and government agencies like the Central Energy Fund and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources to secure fuel reserves for February.
- Fuel distribution efforts: ACSA is liaising with Transnet to prioritize the movement of imported fuel from Durban to Gauteng, and has also turned to King Shaka International Airport, which has surplus storage capacity, to help manage the supply.
- Tankering strategy: Airlines are exploring tankering, which involves refuelling at alternative airports to conserve fuel at OR Tambo.
Despite these efforts, fuel suppliers have imposed restrictions, which could force some airlines to make additional fuel stops at alternative airports to meet their needs.
What It Means for Travelers
The fuel shortage is already beginning to affect airlines, with potential disruptions to flight schedules, especially for long-haul international flights. Passengers should take note of the following:
- Delays and disruptions: Airlines may experience delays due to the fuel shortage, which could result in longer wait times for passengers.
- Check with airlines: Passengers are advised to stay updated on flight status directly with their airlines, as changes to schedules and fuel stopovers may occur.
- Allow extra time at the airport: ACSA recommends arriving earlier than usual, particularly for international flights, to allow for possible delays in immigration and customs processing.
How Passengers Can Prepare
While OR Tambo and its partners are working hard to mitigate the impact of the fuel shortage, travelers should stay informed about any potential changes to their travel plans. ACSA encourages passengers to:
- Monitor flight status regularly with their airlines.
- Allow extra time for connections and airport procedures.
- Arrive early at the airport to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Although the fuel crisis is a significant challenge, ACSA has expressed confidence that, with the help of industry partners, the airport will navigate the situation with minimal disruption to air travel. They continue to communicate transparently with all stakeholders and remain committed to maintaining efficient airport operations.
As the fuel crisis continues to evolve, ACSA thanks passengers and industry partners for their patience and cooperation during this difficult period.
The jet fuel shortage at OR Tambo International Airport is a serious issue with far-reaching implications for South African air travel. With just 7 days of fuel remaining, the airport is working tirelessly with its partners to address the shortage and minimize disruptions. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed, plan ahead, and allow extra time for any delays or adjustments.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com