Jet fuel supplies at major African airports remain steady overall; however, airlines are increasingly adding surcharges due to risks in short-term availability and price volatility, according to the African Airlines Association (AFRAA). The organization is working closely with fuel suppliers to implement contingency measures and is monitoring fuel-related Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) across Africa.
Southern Africa reports sufficient stocks until the end of May, with airport authorities indicating better-than-usual inventory levels, although this is partly due to reduced schedules by Gulf carriers operating in the region. Critical airports such as Johannesburg O.R. Tambo, Cape Town International, and Durban King Shaka are holding enough fuel for several days' operations, supported by consistent supplies from the NATREF refinery in Sasolburg.
Despite stable supplies, rising fuel costs and structural risks like dependence on imports, limited local refining, and infrastructural constraints remain concerns for airlines. Airlines such as Airlink and FlySafair have adjusted capacity but aim to avoid cancellations, while industry experts warn that fuel rationing could lead to grounding aircraft if shortages worsen.
In West Africa, airlines like Air Peace report inconsistent fuel supply at some airports and high prices. Management strategies involve optimizing aircraft deployment to maintain schedules, but regional coordination to improve fuel security is suggested by industry leaders. In East Africa, Kenya's airports have reliable fuel, though prices have doubled, with Astral Aviation lobbying to regulate fuel access for ad hoc operators to prevent demand pressures.
