Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) Faces Jet Fuel Shortage: What travellers need to know

UPDATE (31 August 2026): There are now clear signs that the disruption caused by the Jet A1 shortage is easing. Aviation publication ch-aviation reports (28 August 2026) that Discover Airlines has resumed regular flights from Windhoek, indicating that the airline's temporary refuelling stops in Luanda, Angola, are no longer required.

This is the first clear indication that normal operations are being restored on the affected Europe-bound services. However, as no detailed public statement on the full restoration of Jet A1 supplies at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) has yet been found, we are awaiting further confirmation that the wider fuel shortage has been fully resolved. 

UPDATE (29 August 2026): There are signs that the Jet A1 supply situation in Namibia may be improving. According to the latest available reporting, one replacement fuel consignment has already been cleared for use and dispatched to customers, while another consignment has been shipped to Walvis Bay. Authorities had previously expected the shortage to continue until around this weekend.

However, we have not yet seen confirmation that normal Jet A1 fuelling operations at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) have been fully restored or that Discover Airlines' refuelling stops in Luanda have ended. Travellers should therefore continue checking their individual flight status until the fuel supply situation has been officially confirmed as back to normal. 

UPDATE (25 August 2026): Namibia's Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy has provided further details on the Jet A-1 shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH). A consignment of aviation fuel was quarantined at Walvis Bay after routine quality-control testing required further verification. The ministry stresses that the fuel never entered the aviation supply chain and no off-specification fuel was supplied to aircraft.

The ministry says a replacement Jet A-1 consignment is expected to arrive in Namibia on Saturday, 29 August. Until then, fuelling restrictions remain in place and some long-haul flights continue to require operational adjustments, including Discover Airlines' refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola.

For travellers, this means the situation is not yet resolved, but a potential end to the disruption is now in sight. Passengers flying from Windhoek should continue to check their individual flight status, particularly if travelling on Discover/Lufthansa Group services or with onward connections.

The ministry says airport operations will continue and that restoring full passenger and cargo fuelling capacity is an immediate priority. 

UPDATE (24 August 2026): The Jet A1 shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is continuing to affect some long-haul flights from Windhoek. Local reporting on 23 August 2026 confirmed that Discover Airlines' Europe-bound services are still making a refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola, because of the shortage. The first affected Windhoek–Frankfurt service arrived about 90 minutes late after stopping in Luanda for fuel.

There is still no indication of an airport-wide disruption or closure, and the issue appears to remain concentrated on the long-haul Europe services. Travellers flying with Discover/Lufthansa Group to Frankfurt or Munich should allow extra time and check their individual flight status before travelling. 

UPDATE (21 August 2026, 14:00 SAST): Lufthansa Cargo has confirmed it is currently unable to transport freight out of Windhoek due to the ongoing Jet A1 shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH). According to Namibia's opposition party, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), Lufthansa Cargo notified customers in writing on 19 August 2026 that the restriction runs to 23 August 2026 — though the notice itself states that date is subject to change. Reuters reported it saw a screenshot of the notice but could not independently verify its authenticity.

Passenger flights continue to operate, though some - particularly non-stop services to Europe - are requiring a refuelling stop en route, consistent with the pattern already seen on Discover Airlines' Frankfurt and Munich flights via Luanda, Angola.

For travellers, the practical takeaway remains the same: passenger operations are continuing, but anyone shipping cargo through WDH in the coming days should check directly with their freight forwarder or airline, given the cargo suspension reportedly running through 23 August 2026. 

UPDATE (21 August 2026): The cause of the Jet A1 shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is becoming clearer. According to Reuters, a shipment of aviation fuel delivered to Walvis Bay failed routine quality tests and was removed before entering circulation. Vivo Energy Namibia, a Vitol subsidiary and fuel supplier in Namibia, says the affected fuel was quarantined and that it is investigating the problem while looking for alternative supplies. No firm timeline for replacement supplies has yet been given.

For travellers, the main confirmed impact remains on Discover Airlines' Frankfurt and Munich services, which are using Luanda, Angola, as a refuelling stop. There is still no indication of a general closure of Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) or widespread disruption across all flights.

Travellers flying from Windhoek should continue to check directly with their airline, particularly if travelling on Lufthansa Group/Discover services or with onward connections in Europe. 

UPDATE (20 August 2026, 16:45 SAST): The Jet A1 fuel shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is now affecting flight operations. Discover Airlines has confirmed that its flights from Windhoek to Frankfurt and Munich are making a refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola, before continuing to Europe. Reuters reports that one flight was affected on Wednesday and another on Thursday.

For travellers, the main implication is longer journey times on affected Lufthansa Group/Discover services, although flights have so far continued to depart Windhoek as scheduled. Passengers with onward connections in Frankfurt or Munich should allow extra time and check their flight status with the airline.

The problem appears to be a local and temporary supply issue involving the airport's fuel suppliers. Discover told Reuters that it was not directly caused by the wider fuel-supply situation linked to the war in Iran.

The Namibia Airports Company (NAC) is working with the airlines and fuel suppliers to restore normal fuel availability. At present, there is no indication that Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) itself is closing or that all flights are affected.  

We are continuing to monitor the situation, particularly for any impact on other international and regional services from Windhoek . 

UPDATE (20 August 2026, 07:00 SAST): As of this morning, we have found no confirmed reports of flight cancellations, delays or diversions directly linked to the Jet A1 shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH).

One flight-tracking service briefly displayed an unusual routing reference to Windhoek Eros Airport (NBJ) alongside tonight's two Lufthansa Group long-haul services operated by Discover Airlines: one to Frankfurt at 19:15 and one to Munich at 20:35. Discover's published schedule continues to show the Frankfurt service, 4Y133, and the Munich service, 4Y143, operating non-stop from Hosea Kutako International Aiport (WDH) to Frankfurt and Munich.

We have not been able to confirm the meaning of the NBJ reference with Lufthansa, Discover Airlines, Swiss or Austrian, and it is not corroborated by other sources we have checked. Eros is primarily a domestic and regional airport, while WDH is Namibia's main international gateway. We are therefore treating the routing reference as unverified and are not reporting it as an actual diversion or airport change.

Regional services, including flights to Cape Town, Johannesburg and Victoria Falls, continue to show as scheduled at the time of writing.

For now, there is no confirmed evidence of widespread operational disruption at WDH as a result of the Jet A1 shortage. Travellers flying from Windhoek today should nevertheless check their individual flight status with their airline before heading to the airport.

We will continue monitoring the situation and update this post as soon as confirmed information becomes available from the airlines or Namibia Airports Company (NAC). 

Travellers flying to or from Namibia should currently keep an eye on the fuel situation at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek. The airport is facing a shortage of Jet A1 aviation fuel, which could have an impact on flight operations if the situation continues.

The shortage is particularly relevant for airlines operating international and regional services into Windhoek, as aircraft need sufficient fuel not only for the planned flight but also for operational reserves and possible diversions.

What does the fuel shortage mean for travellers?

At this stage, the fuel shortage does not mean that flights at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) have been cancelled across the board. However, airlines may need to adjust their fuelling arrangements depending on available stocks and the aircraft being operated.

Possible consequences for passengers could include:

• aircraft arriving with additional fuel loaded elsewhere
• refuelling stops being added to some services
• changes to flight schedules or aircraft
• delays if additional fuel arrangements are required

For travellers with upcoming flights to Windhoek, it is therefore worth checking directly with the airline before travelling to the airport.

Why is Jet A1 supply important at Hosea Kutako?

Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is Namibia's main international gateway and lies around 45 km outside Windhoek. The airport has dedicated Jet A1 infrastructure, with the Namibia Airports Company (NAC) listing Puma and Engen Namibia among the fuel service providers at the airport.

The current situation is particularly noteworthy because Namibia had previously reported relatively strong Jet A1 storage capacity. In May 2026, the Namibia Airports Company said Hosea Kutako International Airport had sufficient capacity to refuel six Boeing 747-8 aircraft and that national storage capacity, including Walvis Bay, provided considerable additional resilience.

The present shortage therefore appears to be a supply issue rather than a lack of airport fuel infrastructure.

Could flights to Namibia be affected?

Potentially, yes. The effect will depend on how long the shortage lasts and how quickly additional Jet A1 supplies reach Windhoek.

Airlines have already faced significant fuel-supply pressures elsewhere in Southern Africa during 2026. Earlier this year, shortages at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) even resulted in international carriers using Hosea Kutako International Airport for additional refuelling.

That makes the current situation at Windhoek particularly important for airlines operating long-haul services to Europe and regional connections within Southern Africa.

For passengers, however, there is currently no reason to assume that a booked flight will automatically be cancelled.

Travelling to Namibia? Here's what to do

If you are flying to or from Windhoek in the coming days, the sensible approach is simply to keep checking your flight status.

Before leaving for Hosea Kutako International Airport:

• Check your airline's latest flight information.
• Allow some flexibility in your itinerary, particularly if you have a tight onward connection.
• If you are connecting to a safari flight or another domestic service, avoid unnecessarily short connection times.
• Keep an eye on airline notifications in case fuelling arrangements result in a schedule change.

For travellers already in Namibia, the situation is unlikely to affect self-drive trips, accommodation or access to Namibia's national parks. The issue concerns aviation fuel, not the availability of petrol or diesel for rental cars.

Bottom line

The Jet A1 fuel shortage at Hosea Kutako International Airport is something travellers should monitor, but it is not currently a reason to cancel a trip to Namibia.

The key question is how quickly supplies can be restored. If the shortage is resolved without significant disruption, most passengers will probably notice little more than possible operational changes behind the scenes. If supplies remain tight, however, airlines could increasingly need to tanker fuel into Windhoek or make additional refuelling arrangements elsewhere.

We'll update this post as more information becomes available.

 

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Jet Fuel Supply in South Africa: What travellers need to know in April-May 2026

Update – 2 June 2026

South Africa's jet fuel outlook remains significantly more stable than many aviation experts feared earlier this year. Industry stakeholders have confirmed that major airports, including OR Tambo International Airport and Cape Town International Airport, continue to receive adequate jet fuel supplies, with no reported fuel-related disruptions to scheduled airline operations. Fuel suppliers have successfully diversified sourcing away from an overreliance on traditional Middle East supply routes, increasing imports from the United States and West Africa while maintaining support from domestic refining capacity. This has helped secure fuel availability beyond May despite ongoing global market uncertainty.

However, the global jet fuel market remains under considerable pressure. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and disruptions to traditional shipping routes have forced airlines and fuel suppliers worldwide to source fuel from more distant locations, resulting in longer transport times and significantly higher costs. Airlines across Africa, Europe and North America continue to face elevated fuel expenses, with many carriers maintaining fuel surcharges or higher ticket prices to offset rising operating costs.

For travellers across Southern Africa, the immediate picture remains reassuring. Flights are operating normally, and there are currently no indications of widespread fuel shortages affecting airport operations in the region. Nevertheless, airfares are likely to remain higher than historical averages throughout the northern summer travel season as airlines continue to absorb increased fuel costs. Industry analysts also caution that prolonged global supply disruptions could place additional pressure on fuel inventories later in 2026, making fare reductions unlikely in the near term.

Update – 27 May 2026

The jet fuel situation in Southern Africa remains operationally stable, with no reported shortages at major airports and flights continuing as normal. However, regional airlines are increasingly warning that prolonged fuel supply pressure could lead to future schedule adjustments or flight reductions if conditions worsen. While no widespread disruptions have occurred, elevated jet fuel prices continue to drive higher airfares and entrenched fuel surcharges across the region. Globally, aviation markets remain under pressure, keeping long-haul pricing and network planning volatile heading into mid-2026.  

Update – 20 May 2026

Concern about jet fuel availability in Southern Africa is continuing to grow after Eswatini Air warned that prolonged fuel supply pressure could eventually force flight reductions if conditions worsen. The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) also continues calling for greater clarity on jet fuel availability beyond short-term planning periods, warning that airlines cannot confidently maintain schedules without better visibility on future supplies.

Despite these concerns, flights across South Africa and most of Southern Africa continue operating normally, with no widespread fuel shortages reported at major airports. However, travellers should still expect elevated airfares, ongoing fuel surcharges and possible future schedule adjustments as the global aviation industry continues to navigate prolonged fuel market disruption. 

Update - 15 May 2026

Regional concern about jet fuel availability is increasing after Eswatini Air warned that persistent fuel supply pressure could eventually force flight cuts if conditions deteriorate further. While flights across South Africa and Southern Africa continue operating normally, airlines throughout the region are increasingly planning for prolonged fuel market disruption linked to the Middle East conflict and global supply chain pressure.

The broader situation in South Africa remains stable for now, supported by diversified imports and regional supply planning. However, global aviation bodies continue warning that high jet fuel prices and tight supply conditions are likely to persist for months, with airlines worldwide continuing to raise fares, extend fuel surcharges and reduce capacity on some routes. 

Update – 07 May 2026

Global warnings about jet fuel shortages are intensifying, with analysts cautioning that fuel reserves in parts of Europe could fall below critical levels during the upcoming peak travel season. In Southern Africa, however, jet fuel supply remains stable for now, supported by diversified imports and regional supply planning. Flights across South Africa continue operating normally, although airlines remain concerned about longer-term supply visibility and sustained high fuel prices. Travellers should continue to expect elevated airfares and ongoing fuel surcharges as the global aviation industry navigates prolonged fuel market disruption. 

Update – 06 May 2026

The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) has confirmed that South Africa's jet fuel supply beyond May is being supported by stable imports, diversified sourcing and available domestic refining capacity. This reduces the immediate risk of fuel shortages at major airports and supports continued normal flight operations.

However, industry bodies caution that the situation remains dependent on global supply chains. While availability is currently stabilised, jet fuel prices remain elevated and volatile, and airlines are expected to continue adjusting fares and surcharges accordingly.

For travellers, the outlook remains unchanged: flights are operating normally, but higher ticket prices are likely to persist, with ongoing monitoring of global fuel market developments. 

Update – 05 May 2026

The jet fuel crisis is now expected to last longer than initially anticipated, with damage to key refineries in the Middle East likely to take months to repair. Airlines are increasingly adjusting routes and capacity in response to sustained high fuel costs. In South Africa, FlySafair has extended its fuel surcharge period to August 2026, reflecting ongoing price pressure. While fuel supply remains stable through May and flights continue to operate normally, uncertainty beyond that point remains the key risk, and travellers should expect continued high airfares and possible schedule adjustments.  

Update – 02 May 2026

South Africa has extended fuel tax relief into May and June to ease pressure from rising global oil prices, highlighting the ongoing severity of the fuel crisis. At the same time, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that jet fuel shortages could emerge during the upcoming peak travel season and potentially spread to Africa. While flights in South Africa continue to operate normally, uncertainty around fuel supply beyond May remains unresolved, and travellers should expect continued high airfares and possible schedule adjustments if global pressures persist. 

Update – 28 April 2026

There is some welcome relief for travellers, with FlySafair reducing its temporary fuel surcharge for the second consecutive week as jet fuel prices ease slightly. However, the broader concern remains unchanged: the Airlines Association of Southern Africa still warns of uncertainty around jet fuel availability beyond May 2026, and airlines across Southern Africa continue to monitor supply closely. Flights are operating normally, but travellers should still expect elevated fares and possible schedule adjustments if global fuel pressures persist.

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Travellers planning flights to, from, or within South Africa may be wondering whether the global jet fuel crisis could disrupt their trips.

The short answer is reassuring: flights are still operating normally, but airfares are rising and airlines are closely monitoring fuel supply beyond the next few months.

The ongoing Middle East conflict has disrupted global oil and refined fuel supply chains, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes. Roughly 20% of global oil supply normally moves through this corridor, making aviation fuel prices especially sensitive to disruptions.

For travellers, the main impact right now is simple: expect higher ticket prices, temporary fuel surcharges, and continued fare volatility.

Is South Africa running out of jet fuel?

No — not at present.

Industry bodies and fuel suppliers have indicated that South Africa's jet fuel supply remains stable in the short term, with supply considered secure into late autumn and, in some reports, through June 2026.

Major airports such as O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban continue normal operations, and no widespread fuel-related disruptions have been reported.

However, airlines warn that the challenge is no longer only about price — it is about longer-term supply certainty. If global disruptions continue, airlines may need to adjust schedules, reduce frequencies, or consolidate flights later in the year.

For now, though, travellers should not expect airports to run out of jet fuel.

Why are airfares rising so fast?

Jet fuel prices have surged sharply across Southern Africa.

FlySafair confirmed that Jet A1 fuel prices at South African coastal airports increased by approximately 70% in just one week, forcing airlines to start passing on part of those costs to passengers.

Fuel is one of the largest airline operating costs, and for some African carriers it now represents between 30% and 55% of total operating expenses.

This leads to:

• fuel surcharges
• higher base fares
• fewer promotional fares
• reduced flight frequencies on weaker routes

That is why travellers booking domestic and regional flights now are often seeing noticeably higher prices than earlier in 2026.

Which airlines have introduced fuel surcharges?

Several airlines in South Africa and the region have already adjusted pricing.

FlySafair

FlySafair introduced a temporary dynamic fuel surcharge from 12 March 2026 for new bookings on flights departing on or before 12 May 2026.

Important for travellers:

• existing bookings are not affected
• the surcharge applies only to new bookings
• it appears as a separate line item on tickets
• longer routes attract higher surcharges

Other airlines

Other carriers such as South African Airways (SAA) and Airlink have also adjusted fares across domestic, regional, and international routes, even where a separate surcharge is not shown.

For travellers, the result is the same: flying is becoming more expensive across the region.

Jet fuel supply in other Southern African countries

The situation is similar across much of Southern Africa, where many countries rely heavily on imported aviation fuel supplied through regional ports and road transport networks.

In countries such as Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, major airports including Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek, Maun Airport (MUB) in Maun, Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Victoria Falls, and Maputo International Airport (MPM) in Maputo continue operating normally, with no widespread jet fuel shortages reported.

However, because many of these markets depend on imported fuel from South Africa or via Indian Ocean ports, they are particularly exposed to global price shocks and supply chain disruptions. This means travellers may see rising ticket prices, temporary fuel surcharges and reduced flight frequencies sooner on regional routes than on larger international services.

For example, FlyNamibia introduced a fuel surcharge from 23 March 2026 across the Westair Aviation group, including FlyNamibia Safari and Westair Charters, as a response to rising fuel costs and volatility linked to the Middle East crisis.

Similarly, Air Botswana also introduced fuel surcharges as airlines across the region responded to sharply higher jet fuel prices.

For safari travellers heading to destinations such as the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe/Zambia or Namibia's national parks, flights are still operating normally — but flying around the region is becoming noticeably more expensive. 

Could flights be cancelled?

At the moment, widespread cancellations in South Africa are not expected.

Flights continue to operate normally, and airlines are maintaining schedules.

Globally, however, the picture is more serious. Airlines in Europe, Asia, and Australia have already begun reducing capacity, cutting flights, and adding refuelling stops due to supply pressure and high fuel costs. Europe is also seeing record emergency jet fuel imports from the United States and Nigeria as supply tightens.

This shows how quickly a fuel price problem can become an operational problem if disruptions persist.

South Africa is not there yet — but airlines are planning carefully.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Book earlier rather than later

If fuel prices remain volatile, fares are likely to continue rising.

Monitor airline notifications

Regional routes may see schedule adjustments faster than major long-haul services.

Expect temporary surcharges

Some airlines show them separately, while others simply raise fares.

Stay flexible

Where possible, flexible tickets can help if schedules change later.

Bottom line

For now, South Africa's jet fuel supply remains stable enough for normal operations.

The bigger issue for travellers is cost, not cancellations.

Flights to destinations such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are continuing as normal, but airlines are warning that sustained global fuel pressure could lead to further fare increases and possible schedule adjustments later in 2026.

For now, the message is clear:

planes are still flying — but they are getting significantly more expensive to fill.

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Jet Fuel Supply in Southern Africa: Will Middle East tensions affect flights?

Update – 15 April 2026

The global jet fuel crisis is deepening, with airlines in Europe, Asia and Australia now cutting flights and reducing capacity as supply tightens. Industry body International Air Transport Association (IATA) warns that even if oil shipments resume, jet fuel supply and prices could take months to stabilise due to ongoing refinery disruptions. In Southern Africa, flights continue to operate normally and fuel supply remains stable for now, but travellers should expect continued high airfares and possible schedule adjustments if global pressures persist. 

Update - 07 April 2026

The global jet fuel situation is beginning to affect airline operations, with some carriers in Asia already cutting flights and adjusting schedules due to supply constraints. In Southern Africa, flights continue to operate normally and fuel supply remains stable in the short term, but airlines warn that availability beyond April is uncertain. Travellers should expect continued upward pressure on airfares, with potential schedule adjustments if global supply disruptions persist. 

Update – 30 March 2026

There is some positive news for travellers: South Africa's jet fuel supply is now considered secure until at least June 2026, according to industry bodies including the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa.
This means that no fuel-related flight disruptions are expected in the short term, despite ongoing global supply pressures linked to the Middle East conflict. However, airlines warn that while supply is stable, fuel costs remain high and volatile, and these increases are continuing to feed into higher airfares and surcharges.
Travellers can therefore plan with confidence for the coming months, but should still expect elevated ticket prices as airlines respond to sustained fuel cost pressure. 

Update –  25 March 2026

Jet fuel cost pressures are intensifying, with multiple South African airlines now introducing surcharges or increasing fares. While Sasol says fuel supply remains stable for now, contingency plans are being implemented and airlines globally are warning of potential supply constraints from April. Flights continue to operate normally, but travellers should expect higher fares and possible schedule adjustments if fuel market volatility persists.

Update – 23 March 2026

FlyNamibia has increased airfares from 23 March 2026 after introducing a fuel surcharge, as rising oil prices and ongoing Middle East tensions continue to drive up jet fuel costs. The adjustment applies across the Westair Aviation group, including FlyNamibia, FlyNamibia Safari and Westair Charters. Flights continue to operate normally, but travellers should expect higher ticket prices across the region as airlines pass on escalating fuel costs.

last update 23 March 2026

Jet fuel prices across Southern Africa remain extremely high and volatile, driven by ongoing Middle East tensions. FlySafair continues its temporary fuel surcharge, while other carriers, including Airlink and South African Airways, are adjusting fares on domestic, regional, and international routes. Flights are still operating normally, but travellers should expect higher ticket prices and keep an eye on airline updates as fuel costs continue to influence fares. 

last update 18 March 2026

Jet fuel prices remain highly elevated, with airlines in Southern Africa and globally continuing to pass on rising costs through higher fares and fuel surcharges. Additional international carriers are now adjusting pricing, and early capacity cuts by some airlines highlight growing pressure on the aviation sector. While no jet fuel shortages have been reported at major airports, travellers should expect further airfare increases in the coming weeks if fuel prices remain volatile.

last update 17 March 2026

Jet fuel prices continue to surge, with costs in Southern Africa now up more than 100% in the past month. Additional African carriers, including RwandAir, Air Mauritius and Ethiopian Airlines, have begun introducing fuel surcharges or fare increases, signalling a broader regional impact. Flights continue to operate normally, but travellers should expect further airfare increases in the coming weeks. 

last update 16 March 2026

Airlines in South Africa are adjusting fares following the recent spike in global jet fuel prices. FlySafair has introduced a temporary dynamic fuel surcharge for flights departing until 12 May 2026, while South African Airways has implemented fare increases across its domestic, regional and international network from 12 March. Other airlines such as Airlink are also adjusting ticket prices. Importantly, previously issued tickets remain valid at the original fare.

last update 11 March 2026

South African domestic airline, FlySafair, has announced the introduction of a temporary dynamic fuel surcharge on tickets in response to the sharp rise in global jet fuel prices linked to the Middle East crisis. The surcharge will apply to new bookings for flights departing between 12 March and 12 May 2026 and will appear as a separate line item on tickets. Existing bookings will not be affected.

Other South African airlines have not yet introduced dedicated fuel surcharges. However, carriers including South African Airways and Airlink say they are closely monitoring jet fuel prices and may adjust fares if costs remain elevated. For travellers, this means that while flights are operating normally, ticket prices across the region could gradually increase if fuel markets remain volatile. 

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The airline says jet fuel prices at South African coastal airports have increased by around 70% in just one week, forcing it to pass on part of the additional costs while keeping the surcharge temporary and transparent. The amount will vary by route length and will be reviewed regularly as fuel prices change. 

The recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East has raised concerns about global oil supply and aviation fuel availability. Since jet fuel is refined from crude oil, disruptions to global shipping routes can quickly affect airline operations and ticket prices.

For travellers heading to Southern Africa, the good news is that flights are currently operating normally and airports have adequate jet fuel supplies. However, airlines and fuel suppliers across the region are closely monitoring developments.

Why the Middle East situation matters

A large share of the world’s oil exports moves through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important energy shipping routes globally.

If oil shipments through this route are disrupted, global fuel prices typically rise. For airlines, jet fuel is one of their largest operating costs, so sustained price increases can eventually lead to higher airfares.

South Africa: Supplies Stable
In South Africa, aviation fuel supplies remain stable and airports continue normal operations.

Major hubs such as O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town, and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban currently have sufficient jet fuel stocks.

Supply comes from a mix of domestic production, synthetic fuels from Sasol, and imported fuel arriving through ports such as Durban.

For travellers, this means no fuel-related flight disruptions are currently expected.

Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Other Southern African countries have smaller aviation markets but continue to receive regular fuel deliveries.

Airports operating normally include:

• Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek, Namibia
• Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) in Walvis Bay, Namibia 
• Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone, Botswana 
• Maun Airport (MUB) in Maun, Botswana
• Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia
• Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, Zambia
• Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare, Zimbabwe 
• Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Fuel in these markets is mostly imported from regional suppliers, particularly South Africa, but there are currently no widespread shortages affecting travellers.

Mozambique
In Mozambique, jet fuel is mainly imported via ports such as Maputo and Beira.

Airports including Maputo International Airport (MPM) in Maputo and Vilankulo Airport (VNX) in Vilankulo continue operating normally.

What Travellers Should Expect

For now, travellers to Southern Africa should expect:

• Flights operating normally
• No reported jet fuel shortages at major airports
• Possible airfare increases if global fuel prices remain high

While the global energy situation remains uncertain, aviation fuel supplies across Southern Africa are currently stable.

Travellers should simply keep an eye on airline updates as the situation develops.

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ACSA: Update on jet supply at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg! [update]

update (27 May 2022): According to the Jet Fuel Forum Committee (JFF) the jet fuel shortage at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg “should largely be resolved” by the end of May 2022, as additional fuel will be made available to airlines whose suppliers are currently unable to fulfil their contractual obligations. READ MORE

update (10 May 2022): According to the latest update by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) on the current jet fuel supply at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, assurances have been issued to airlines that the supply of jet fuel at the airport is stable and sufficient to meet the demand. Several interventions have been put in place to immediately stop the cancellation of flights, tankering (fuel stops) and eliminate Technical Stops which are costly, and ensure more than adequate fuel availability to all airlines at all times. Click here for more information.

According to a new press release by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), a ship carrying a consignment of jet fuel arrived at Durban Port in Durban on 05 May 2022. The process to pump the fuel into the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery will then begin, thereby ensuring availability of jet fuel to pump into aircraft at O.R Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg once the quality control process is concluded. Currently, additional quantities of fuel from the NATREF refinery are being supplied to O.R Tambo International Airport (JNB), as well as smaller quantities via rail from Mozambique. ACSA has given an assurance that overall stock levels are stable, while certain suppliers impacted by the floods are still unable to get the quantities they require. The company has further indicated that there is also an anticipated volume of approximately 20 million litres that will come through a special pipeline consignment. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), a state-controlled South African rail transport company, is working round the clock to get a portion of their rail system between Durban and Johannesburg operational from mid-June 2022, which will restore at least 50% of the normal rail capacity from the coast.

“I am encouraged that the jet fuel supply at OR Tambo International remains stable and airlines are working with ACSA to ensure that there are no disruptions to their operations, by making technical stops to refuel at other airports such as King Shaka International Airport,” said Minister of Transport Fikile April Mbalula

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is a partially state owned South African airport management company, which operates nine of South Africa's major airports including O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban.

ACSA: Jet fuel stock at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is stable and meeting the current demand! [update]

update (28 April 2022): South African Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula has assured the aviation sector that there is adequate fuel at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and at all airports in South Africa.

According to a press release by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the supply of jet fuel to airlines flying in-and-out of OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is stable and continues to meet the demand of airlines. This in spite of disruptions to the transportation of the jet fuel-value chain as a result of many factors initially starting with the railway infrastructure damage caused by recent floods in KwaZulu-Natal.
It is estimated that Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), a state-controlled South African rail transport company, will only be able to repair the damaged railway infrastructure in KwaZulu-Natal by 09 June 2022. ACSA, TFR and oil companies have therefore developed an interim plan to have sufficient jet fuel at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB). The airport is currently operating on three to four days’ worth of stock which will be sustained over the next six weeks.

“This situation has created uncertainty amongst international airlines, but I want to assure our airline partners and passengers that there is adequate fuel at OR Tambo International Airport and all our airports. We are in continued engagements with oil suppliers to share stock. Some international airlines are in the process of confirming the availability of stock directly with their suppliers”, says Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) Chief Executive Officer, Mpumi Mpofu.

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is a partially state owned South African airport management company, which operates nine of South Africa's major airports including O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban.

Malawi is running out of jet fuel

Malawi is to facing a severe jet fuel shortage. On Monday (21 Nov 2011) a South African Airways (SAA) flight to Lilongwe had to offload about half of the passengers because there was simply no jet fuel at Lilongwe International Airport left and the plane could only make a return trip with 50% of passengers on board. [more]
SAA is the only airline that is flying between South Africa and Malawi. Malawi's national airline, Air Malawi, had to ground its Johannesburg flights because the lease agreement on the aircraft (Boeing 737-300) the airline has been using for those flights is expired.
Looks like the overland bus service industry will have to get ready for some more travellers...

Johannesburg: Jet fuel supply constraints at O.R. Tambo International Airport

Because of certain disruptions of supply, O.R. Tambo International Airport  in Johannesburg currently has only 3.1 days’ worth of jet fuel stock available and not the the usual five days’ worth of fuel stock. Fuel is still being delivered daily, but simply not in the normal quantities.
The management of the airport had discussions with the relevant role players, in particular the fuel suppliers, and, according to the officials, everything possible is being done to ensure that the fuel supply situation normalises as soon as possible.

[I couldn't find any info why there are jet fuel supply constraints at ORTIA - do you know the reason?]

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