Fuel System Restored At Or Tambo After Delays Hit Flights

Operations are back to normal after flight delays caused by refuelling issues at OR Tambo Airport in Kempton Park Johannesburg File Photo Independent Newspapers

Technical fault at South Africa’s busiest airport caused widespread flight disruptions, now resolved as operations return to normal.

A valve breakdown at OR Tambo International Airport’s fuel system triggered flight delays on Monday before Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) technicians restored full operations. The incident affected multiple airlines at Johannesburg’s main aviation hub.

ACSA regional general manager Jabulani Khambule said the problem stemmed from a mechanical failure at the fuel farm, not a fuel shortage.

“The breakdown was due to a valve that brings fuel into the apron for fueling aircrafts,” Khambule told eNCA. “When the shaft broke down, the valve couldn’t open.”

ACSA confirmed in a statement that operations have normalized, though airlines continue working through the backlog of delayed flights.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused,” ACSA said, directing affected passengers to contact their airlines directly for updates.

The disruption comes as South African Airways (SAA) resolves a separate challenge, with pilots ending their strike after securing an improved wage deal. The agreement increases pilot salaries by 9.47%, up from the previous offer.

SAA interim CEO Professor John Lamola said the airline will implement “work-life concessions” while continuing discussions on operational improvements over the next eight weeks.

More than 100 pilots have returned to duty, allowing SAA to resume its regular flight schedule. The airline said management will work with the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA) to enhance productivity.