GEORGE NEWS - FlySafair has confirmed a temporary fuel surcharge on new bookings for flights departing before 12 May 2026, citing a sharp rise in operating costs for its Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
The increase comes as South African fuel and flight prices face mounting pressure from ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have contributed to a roughly 70% surge in jet fuel prices, prompting airlines to adjust fares.
On the ground, some motorists are already feeling the impact. A notification shared by a George Herald reader indicated that a fuel station in Mossel Bay has implemented rationing, limiting customers to 50L per vehicle per transaction and prohibiting refills into storage containers. The validity of the notice could not be independently verified by the time of going to press.
Not all sectors are experiencing shortages, however.
Sources at other local fuel stations in George report normal operations, noting that some suppliers source fuel locally and are less dependent on imports.
Even where supply remains steady, prices continue to be influenced by the rand-dollar exchange rate and broader economic factors, which could still drive increases.
In certain sectors, South Africa's reliance on imported fuel, combined with refinery shutdowns, heightens vulnerability to global disruptions. Analysts warn that if the Middle East conflict persists, petrol and diesel prices are likely to rise further, keeping airfares elevated.
Early projections for April indicate petrol could increase by up to R4.27 per litre, with diesel rising by more than R7. Factors driving these hikes include higher crude oil prices, a weaker rand, and new fuel levies.
While some residents say there are no winners in war, others believe panic is premature. For now, consumers should expect continued volatility at both the pump and the airport.
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