Southern African airlines face jet fuel supply crunch and rising costs
via The Citizen3 min read
A looming jet fuel supply crunch in Southern Africa is causing concern among airlines, with operators warning that uncertainty over availability beyond May could disrupt schedules and increase costs across the region. The Airlines Association of Southern Africa AASA stated that the lack of certainty on fuel supply is now a greater threat than pricing alone. AASA chief executive Aaron Munetsi highlighted that airlines require certainty on jet fuel supplies beyond a six-week horizon to maintain schedules and fulfill customer obligations. This concern follows ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, and Munetsi warned that recovery would not be immediate even if the route reopens. Jet fuel prices in Southern Africa have more than tripled, with landlocked countries like Malawi experiencing prices over R50 a litre. Airlink, which operates the largest regional network in SADC, has adjusted capacity and reduced some rotations due to the fuel crisis, though it has avoided route cancellations. Airlink has also implemented measures to recover costs through pricing while trying to manage the impact on passengers. Some carriers have already implemented fuel surcharges and reduced flight frequencies. Munetsi emphasized the need for clearer communication from governments and suppliers regarding fuel stocks, deliveries, and the possible release of strategic reserves. Airports Company South Africa Acsa stated that jet fuel supplies in South Africa remai
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