AIRLINES WERE warned of a possible fuel shortage at Johannesburg International Airport last Thursday (February 2) and requested immediately to begin voluntary fuel rationing where possible of at least 15% less than normal operations to avoid a critical fuel shortage in the latter part of this week. “It appears that jet fuel supply during the early part of next week will keep stock at acceptable levels but no absolute guarantees can be given until there is confirmation from NATREF on the completion of the maintenance work being undertaken,” Acsa spokesman Solomon Makgale told FTW. Airlines wishing to re-fuel on domestic legs have been requested to do so from Durban and Cape Town International Airports only, and to avoid any additional refuelling at any other ACSA Domestic Airports. “There is no need to panic at this stage as the situation is under control and will be closely monitored on a daily basis until a solution is found. Necessary contingency plans are being put in place to ensure that there are minimal disruptions to normal flight operations,” Makgale said.
