Acsa,Fiasa Natref are working hard on risk mitigation measures to ensure continued operations at the OR Tambo Airport following fire at refinery.
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The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (Fiasa) says it is working around the clock to ensure continued fuel supply to the OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) following a fire at the refinery, earlier this month.
In a statement, the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) said it is collaborating with Fiasa and the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (Natref) to implement risk mitigation and prevent disruptions in fuel supply.
The Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) damaged by the fire is expected to be back online by February 21," Acsa said.
It added that a jet fuel delivery of 17,000m³ is expected to arrive by Sunday (January 12) at ORTIA, a planned injection of 31,000m³ from Durban is set for Tuesday (January 14), with delivery to ORTIA expected by January 27.
"Furthermore, rail deliveries from Durban and Matola in Mozambique are being prioritised, with additional capacity available to support increased jet fuel volumes and sourcing fuel from other airports and direct injections to Natref.
"Immediate intervention and risk mitigation measures are required to address the anticipated jet fuel shortage at ORTIA between January 20 and the expected delivery date of January 27," Acsa said.
It said airlines, passengers, and all stakeholders are assured that all necessary steps are being taken to maintain normal airport operations and guarantee a secure and uninterrupted fuel supply.
Acsa added that it is closely monitoring the situation.
seanne.rall@iol.co.za
IOL
