UK flights diverted to refuel due to fuel crisis at Johannesburg airport Business News

Virgin Atlantic passengers traveling overnight tonight from Johannesburg to London will have their journey extended by 600 miles and three hours.

A fuel shortage at OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg – South Africa’s main hub – led Virgin Atlantic to divert its overnight flight from the city via Durban, which is 300 miles to the south.

After leaving Johannesburg at 6:45 p.m., the Airbus A350 will fly from London to the airport in the coastal city, where it will refuel. The journey to London is almost 6,000 miles and involves a flight very close to Johannesburg.

Passengers have been informed: “We wanted to provide you with important information for your flight from Johannesburg to London Heathrow on April 28.

“Due to the current fuel supply issues at OR Tambo International Airport, we are unable to refuel our aircraft as usual at the airport.

“Therefore, your flight will temporarily operate via Durban, in order to top up fuel and continue to the UK. All passengers will remain on board during this process.” The Durban stop will add around three hours to the journey time and is a necessary measure to enable customers to carry out their travel plans.

“We apologize for the inconvenience and are closely monitoring fuel deliveries, maintaining regular contact with local partners.”

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “In response to the current fuel supply issues at OR Tambo International Airport, until May 2, select Virgin Atlantic VS450 flights from Johannesburg to London Heathrow can operate via Durban, in order to top up the fuel and continue to the UK. ”

Johannesburg airport has suffered sporadic fuel shortages in recent months, but they have been exacerbated by flooding in KwaZulu-Natal, which has disrupted supply chains to South Africa.

Earlier this week, United Airlines canceled flights between New York and Johannesburg due to “airport-wide supply issues”. The 8,000 mile flight is one of the airline’s longest.

British Airways flights between Johannesburg and London do not appear to be affected.