Azra Hoosen | ah@radioislam.co.za
3 March 2025 | 13:45 CAT
2 min read

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is facing increasing scrutiny over its long-term plans to ensure a stable aircraft fuel supply at major airports, with the Democratic Alliance (DA) expressing concern over the lack of meaningful progress.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, DA MP Chris Hunsinger highlighted the persistent fuel supply issues at key airports like OR Tambo International and Cape Town International, which have faced severe disruptions. “Indeed, we had occasions of fire at Natref in Sasolburg. We also had interruptions, most recently when a safety valve collapsed and disintegrated. This is most concerning given that ACSA controls eight airports, including OR Tambo and Cape Town, which were mostly affected,” he said.

ACSA’s fuel supply strategy was recently presented to Parliament, but according to Hunsinger, it fails to provide sustainable solutions. “We requested an urgent meeting from the DA’s side with ACSA, and while we were presented with short-term solutions, our concern is over the medium and longer term,” he added.

He revealed that while 121 million litres of fuel were secured to meet demand until February, long-term supply issues remain unresolved. One of the major concerns was the failure of a safety valve on the fuel pipeline from Durban. “We went on-site, demanded to see the axle valve, and we could then confirm that the safety valve was replaced,” Hunsinger noted.

However, Hunsinger emphasised that ACSA does not sell aviation fuel but only facilitates its supply, making coordination between refineries, regulators, and government departments crucial. “Over the past seven years, less than 25% of the allocated budget for maintenance was actually spent,” he pointed out, calling this a “huge concern” given the safety valve failure.

Looking at what needs to be done, Hunsinger stressed the importance of addressing regulatory and infrastructure barriers that hinder fuel supply. “Over the medium term, we need to engage with the Department of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Electricity and Energy, and the Department of Transport to increase capacity and remove restrictive regulations,” he said.

He explained that 72% of South Africa’s aviation fuel comes from Sasolburg’s Natref refinery, while the rest arrives via ships. “During winter, rough seas disrupt deliveries, so stockpiling of fuel is essential. But current regulations restrict fuel suppliers from assisting each other with stock, which needs to change,” he said.

Hunsinger also warned that growing air traffic will increase fuel demand. “We are closing in on pre-COVID passenger volumes. With current infrastructure limitations, we will run into trouble, and that’s what we need to address now,” he said.

The DA has vowed to push for urgent action to prevent future disruptions that could threaten business travel, economic activity, investment, and tourism in South Africa.

LISTEN to the full interview with Ml Junaid Kharsany and Chris Hunsinger, DA MP, here.