South Africa's OR Tambo International Airport confirms flight delays following refuelling challenges

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) on Thursday said challenges with the refuelling of aircraft has impacted 41 flights at OR Tambo International Airport.

There was a technical issue with the main supply valve that provides fuel to the tarmac which caused delays to domestic and international departures. A tanker was then used to refuel aircraft.

"Since the commencement of operations until 08:30 (06:30 GMT), when the problem was resolved, a total of 41 flights were impacted, 32 being domestic, eight international and one regional flight," ACSA said in a statement received by PANA.

The refuelling problem began on Wednesday, leaving local and international travellers stranded.

ACSA said that additional staff members were deployed to assist passengers with queries adding that affected airlines and passengers were notified.

"Operations are back to normal except for knock-on effects of late departures this morning leading to delayed returned flights," it added.

-0- PANA CU/MA 29Dec2022