GACL advises airlines to adjust refuelling plans amid looming fuel crisis

Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) has urged all airlines flying to Kotoka International Airport (KIA) to make prior refuelling arrangements with their service providers, as the country faces a looming shortage of aviation fuel.

The advisory follows growing concerns that supply constraints could potentially disrupt flight operations if not swiftly addressed.

According to GACL, the directive is a precautionary measure intended to minimise delays and maintain the safety and reliability of airline operations.

Airlines are therefore expected to coordinate closely with fuel handlers ahead of arrival to prevent last-minute complications.

Media reports indicate that the shortage stems from supply challenges among providers within the Joint User Hydrant Installation (JUHI) system at the airport.

The situation has been exacerbated by the indefinite suspension of refuelling services by the two main direct suppliers—TotalEnergies and Shell—which has already affected ad-hoc or spot flights as well as existing fuel orders.

While management at KIA is yet to issue an official statement or announce mitigation measures, sources indicate that the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), which regulates fuel supply and distribution at the airport, is actively engaging stakeholders in a bid to stabilise the situation and avoid further disruptions to airline schedules.

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