Namibia’s main international airport is facing Jet A-1 fuel supply constraints, prompting warnings that flight schedules could be affected as authorities work with suppliers and airlines to maintain operations as supplies from the Gulf continue to dwindle
The state-owned Namibia Airports Company (NAC) said it was closely monitoring fuel supply challenges at Hosea Kutako International Airport, the country’s principal international gateway, The Namibian reported on August 20.
NAC spokesperson Dan Kamati said the company was working with fuel suppliers, government authorities, airlines and other aviation stakeholders to minimise disruption. “Airport operations are continuing, while contingency measures are being considered where necessary,” he said.
Passengers have been advised to remain in contact with their airlines for possible schedule changes as the situation develops. The NAC did not report any suspension of airport operations.
Hosea Kutako, about 45 km (28 miles) east of Windhoek, dominates Namibia’s air traffic. The airport accounted for 79.6% of all passenger movements through the country’s airports in April, according to the Namibia Statistics Agency.
The airport provides Namibia’s main international connections, including services to South Africa, Ethiopia, Angola and European destinations such as Frankfurt, Munich and Zurich. Its importance to the country’s tourism sector means prolonged aviation fuel constraints could affect visitor flows and international connectivity.
NAC CEO Bisey /Uirab said in May that Namibia had sufficient fuel capacity to manage short-term supply constraints amid concerns about disruption to international energy shipments linked to tensions in the Middle East.