On 9 December 2024, OR Tambo International posted a notice to inform passengers about possible delays due to a refuelling problem. While they have since issued an update regarding fuel trucks being on their way to the airport and systems are once again up and running, passengers are reportedly unhappy about these disruptions.
Facebook/OR Tambo International
IOL detailed Jabulani Khambule, the ACSA regional general manager, who stated in an interview that the fuel problem was not caused by a shortage but rather by a mechanical breakdown, where the distribution valve was malfunctioning.
This flight schedule delay follows the SAA pilot strike on 5 December, which caused flights and routes to be altered due to the demonstration from SAA workers. The airline cancelled and rescheduled around 60% of its flights during this 3-day pilot strike, which cost the SAA a whopping R70 million a day, according to BusinessLIVE.
As December is seen as one of the most popular months for travel, and this airport is known as the busiest in South Africa, this will surely cause a significant economic cost from these delays and flight schedule alterations.
Business Tech has reported that OR Tambo International has issued a plan of action passengers can follow if the delays have disrupted their travel plans:
“In the meantime, passengers are encouraged to contact their respective airlines directly for further information. Alternatively, you can download the ACSA Mobile App and subscribe to your flight for live flight notifications, ensuring you stay up-to-date with any changes.”
READ MORE: SAA charts global comeback with new routes to Europe, US, and Asia
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