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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South African National Parks (SANParks) issues weather advisory for Kruger National Park amid heavy rainfall forecast! [update]

last updated:10 January 2026
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has released an update on a low-pressure system currently located over the southern parts of Mozambique, which is expected to significantly influence weather conditions over north-eastern South Africa over the coming days.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued an important travel advisory for Kruger National Park (KNP), urging visitors to exercise heightened caution due to forecast heavy rainfall across northeastern South Africa. Travellers planning to visit the park over the coming days should closely monitor weather conditions and adjust travel plans where necessary.
According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), widespread rain is expected to affect Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, including large parts of Kruger National Park. The wet weather system is forecast to intensify over the weekend and may persist into early next week, potentially impacting road conditions and accessibility within the park.

Heavy rainfall expected across Mpumalanga and Limpopo
SAWS has warned of significant rainfall totals of up to 50mm in localized areas, accompanied by thunderstorms and the risk of localized flooding. The advisory period currently spans Saturday, 10 January 2026, through Monday, 12 January 2026, with conditions remaining unsettled beyond that timeframe.
Within Kruger National Park, rainfall is expected to reach the western regions first, before spreading eastward as the weekend progresses. These conditions may affect both tarred and gravel roads, particularly in low-lying areas near rivers and drainage lines.

What this means for Kruger National Park visitors
While rainfall transforms Kruger National Park into a lush, green summer landscape - often excellent for birding and scenic photography - it also presents practical and safety challenges. SANParks has therefore issued clear guidance to help visitors navigate the park safely during this period of adverse weather.

Safety guidelines for visitors to Kruger National Park
SANParks advises all guests to take the following precautions:

• Avoid Flood-Prone Areas
  Low-lying sections, riverbeds, and floodplains may become hazardous during heavy rain. These areas can flood rapidly and should be avoided at all times.
• Exercise Extreme Caution on Gravel Roads
  Gravel roads can become slippery, rutted, or impassable after heavy downpours. Where possible, stick to tarred routes and avoid unnecessary driving during peak rainfall.
• Stay Informed
  Regularly check official SANParks updates and weather warnings issued by the South African Weather Service to remain aware of changing conditions.
• Travel Early and Plan Conservatively
  Depart earlier in the day and aim to return to camps or lodges before afternoon or evening storms, which are common during the summer rainfall season.
• Be Emergency-Ready
  Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry sufficient water, food, and a fully charged mobile phone. Park rangers remain on standby to assist in emergencies, but response times may be affected by weather conditions.

Final thoughts: Enjoy Kruger National Park safely during the green season
Summer rainfall is an integral part of Kruger National Park's natural cycle, breathing life into the landscape and supporting abundant wildlife. However, visitors are reminded that safety must remain a priority. By adhering to SANParks’ guidelines and adjusting travel plans in response to weather conditions, guests can continue to enjoy a rewarding and responsible safari experience.
SANParks thanks all visitors for their cooperation and encourages careful planning during this period of increased rainfall to ensure a safe and memorable visit to Kruger National Park.

Please note: SANParks further announced the following: Should Kruger National Park management and the risk management team see it as a necessity to close camps that would otherwise pose a risk to guests during the floods, all affected guests will be contacted and notified of the closing. Those who are in house, will be offered alternative accommodation as well as transportation to the facilities if not safe for them to self drive.
Guests need not worry as communications with expected and in-house guests will run as planned. 

 

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