African airlines face soaring costs as jet fuel supply dwindles
Airfind news item
By Seher Dareen
Published on March 20, 2026.
Africa is among the most exposed regions to disruptions in jet fuel supply and prices, with around 70% of imports via the Strait of Hormuz. African airlines are particularly sensitive to this as jet fuel prices fluctuate rapidly. Jannie de Klerk, executive director of flight operations at South Africa’s National Airways Corporation, said airlines are now having to adjust prices on arrival due to fluctuating prices. The Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa said domestic jet fuel stocks were sufficient for around three to four weeks. The Zambian government warned against panic buying and hoarding by industry players. South African low-cost carrier FlySafair said jet fuel usually makes up 50% to 55% of its direct operating costs, and estimates an additional cost of about R35,000 per flight hour ($2,071) for each Boeing 737‑800 in operation.
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