Flight Disruptions at O.R. Tambo: Airlink Apologises to Customers

Airlink has apologised to customers for the inconvenience and disruptions to its flights today caused by the failure of the airport’s refuelling system at Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport this morning. All airlines operating at the airport are affected.

While the disruptions are beyond Airlink’s control, the airline said it was doing the best it could to clear the backlog of delayed flights within the constraints of safety regulations such as crew duty limitation.

According to Airlink, the refuelling system has been repaired (temporarily) but there will be delays with boarding and disembarkation of flights, checked-baggage handling, cleaning and the provisioning of flights. 

"We appeal to our customers for patience while our team does its best to ensure that their Airlink flights are operated safely and depart and arrive as on-time as possible under the circumstances. However, the backlog of delayed flights is immense, and it is probable that some flights may be cancelled because of the refuelling system failure.

Safety remains our top priority and Airlink will deploy additional aircrew and ground staff so that we are able to dispatch any long-delayed flights as fast as possible without exceeding any flight duty time. 

O.R. Tambo International Airport is Airlink’s main base and South Africa’s primary gateway for air transport."

Affected customers, meeters and greeters should are advised to check the arrivals and departures boards at the airport. 

Airlink typically operates 190 flights a day to and from the airport to 45  domestic and regional destinations in Southern and Eastern Africa.

Updates and travel advice will also be available on www.flyairlink.com, on the Airlink app and on Airlink’s social media channels. Airlink will also issue further updates today on its social media channels and through the news media.