Bad weather grounds flights to Joburg from George Airport

Several flights from George Airport in the Western Cape to OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng were delayed on Monday.

FlySafair confirmed that six flights between George and Joburg had been cancelled due to bad weather.

“The severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, low clouds, and strong winds, have created conditions unsuitable for safe flight operations.

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Flights delayed

“The safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority,” the airline said.

These are the flights affected and their departure times:

• FA220: Johannesburg to George – 11:00
• FA221: George to Johannesburg – 13:35
• FA650: Johannesburg to George – 12:35
• FA651: George to Johannesburg – 15:10
• FA252: Johannesburg to George – 16:00
• FA253: George to Johannesburg – 18:35

FlySafair apologised for the cancellations and said those affected could contact them for assistance via email or SMS to cancel or change their bookings.

Those impacted can visit FlySafair’s website to learn more about the cancellation process.

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Weather

The South Africa weather service said midday on Monday that there was a 60 % chance of scattered rainfall in the George area, with a warning of severe thunderstorms and damaging winds in the central parts of the country.

Fuel issues have been a significant concern at airports for several months, with OR Tambo confirming they only have seven days to run out of fuel.

Fuel problems

This comes after a fire at the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery on 4 January 2025 impacted jet fuel production nationally.

The Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) said OR Tambo International Airport has 27.1 million litres of jet fuel currently available.

Acsa said airlines are entitled to take measures they consider prudent to save the current fuel reserves until certainty about February prevails.

The company reassured airlines, passengers, and all stakeholders that necessary steps are being taken to maintain normal airport operations and ensure the secure and uninterrupted availability of jet fuel at OR Tambo International Airport.

“Acsa remains committed to transparent and timely communication and will continue to monitor the situation closely,” it said.

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