DA calls for probe into OR Tambo aviation fuel supply disruptions

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for a full-scale Ministerial investigation into the collapse of aviation fuel supply at OR Tambo International Airport on Monday and its severe impact on South Africa’s tourism industry.

The party further called on the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, to initiate a thorough investigation into the root causes of this failure, and to launch the investigation without delay.

On Monday, 54 flights at the airport were delayed due to the refuelling challenges, which according to the Airports Company South Africa was caused by a broken shaft valve.

In a statement, the party added that disruptions of this magnitude threaten the country’s tourism sector, causing widespread flight delays, cancellations, and interruptions to connecting flights.

“These challenges deter travellers, lead to financial losses, and tarnish South Africa’s reputation as a tourist destination.” DA Spokesperson on Tourism, Haseena Ismail

Ismail further says it is imperative to determine how this crisis occurred and to implement measures that will prevent similar disruptions in the future.

“We do not need a patch-up job, we need the issue to be solved completely so that it does not happen again.”

The DA further emphasised that the investigation is needed as court documents recently revealed that Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is facing multiple liquidation applications due to its failure to pay service providers over R500 million, excluding interest, for services rendered.

” – [this] is already a great concern – and a collapse of fuel supply yesterday lends further credence to this reporting.”

Allegations of financial misrepresentation and withheld payments by ACSA have further undermined confidence in airport operations and management.

“We urge Minister Creecy to act swiftly to restore stability in the aviation sector and safeguard the growth and resilience of our tourism industry.”