South African airlines and Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) say there is no immediate jet fuel shortage, despite growing concern over the conflict in the Middle East and its effect on global energy markets. ACSA spokesperson Ofentse Dijoe said fuel suppliers responsible for airport stocks have assured the company they will meet their commitments to customers.

SAA and FlySafair Keep Watching the Market

South African Airways said its fuel suppliers across all operating stations have not flagged any immediate shortages. SAA executive for corporate affairs Mphilo Dlamini said the airline remains in continuous contact with suppliers and does not expect widespread flight delays linked to fuel availability at this stage.

FlySafair also said there is no indication of jet fuel shortages from its suppliers. But the airline has made it clear that the cost pressure is real. According to earlier comments referenced in the report, fuel makes up about 50% to 55% of FlySafair’s direct operating costs. The airline estimates current price levels add around R35,000 per flight hour for each Boeing 737-800 in service.

Temporary Surcharge Already in Play

FlySafair said it has been absorbing the higher costs since the crisis began, but warned that this cannot continue indefinitely without threatening affordable air travel in South Africa. As a result, the airline has introduced a temporary fuel surcharge on flights departing on or before 12 May 2026. The surcharge came into effect on 12 March 2026 and will vary depending on route length.

The airline said the surcharge will be shown as a separate item on tickets in the interest of transparency. It also stressed that the charge is not meant to generate profit, but to help maintain service continuity while fuel prices remain elevated.

Government and Industry Respond to Pressure

The latest update comes after Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced measures aimed at softening the blow of rising fuel prices, including a temporary reduction in the general fuel levy. The article notes that the Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources are also looking at fuel security measures as pressure on the domestic market builds. For now, airlines say supply is stable, but the Middle East situation remains a major risk to costs and future operations.