The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) has issued a stark warning about potential jet fuel supply constraints extending beyond next month, highlighting the continued turbulence in global energy markets linked to ongoing conflict.
The association's chief executive, Aaron Munetsi, stated that carriers operating across the 16-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC), including major hubs like South Africa, are struggling to plan fuel needs due to unclear communication from suppliers and governments.
"Airlines require certainty on the security of jet fuel supplies beyond a six-week horizon if they are to maintain their schedules and fulfill their obligations to customers," Munetsi emphasized, noting the sector's critical need for reliable supply visibility.
The alert comes amid persistent disruptions to global oil logistics, including pressures on vital maritime chokepoints. Munetsi explained that even if immediate blockades are lifted, the recovery of fuel production will be slow. "Several refineries in the Gulf have been damaged and will need to be repaired or rebuilt," he said.
This uncertainty has triggered a dramatic surge in jet fuel costs across the region. Prices in Southern Africa have escalated from about R8.50 per litre in February to over R30 by mid-April. In some landlocked nations, such as Malawi, costs have reportedly exceeded $3.02 per litre.
The financial strain is already cascading down to passengers. Several airlines, including South African Airways (SAA) and low-cost carrier FlySafair, have implemented or adjusted fuel surcharges on tickets, stating they can no longer absorb the sharp increase in this key operational expense.
Munetsi has called for urgent collaboration across the aviation value chain. He urged fuel suppliers, depot operators, airports, and SADC governments to transparently share contingency plans and data on fuel stocks and strategic reserves. Furthermore, he appealed to airports and air navigation service providers to maximize operational efficiency to reduce fuel-wasting congestion and delays.
"Now, more than at any other time, they have a responsibility to ensure they operate with maximum efficiency," Munetsi concluded, framing the issue as a critical test for the region's air transport resilience.
Reference(s):
Southern Africa Airlines Association warns of jet fuel shortage
cgtn.com
