Passion Air Warns of Major Flight Disruptions Amid Aviation Fuel Shortage
Domestic airline Passion Air has issued a cautionary statement warning of significant disruptions to its flight operations across all routes, citing an anticipated shortage of aviation fuel (Jet A-1) at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, July 23, the airline disclosed that the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) had issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on July 22, 2025, alerting carriers to a looming shortfall in aviation fuel supplies from Wednesday, July 23 to Sunday, July 27, 2025.
“As a result, we expect significant disruptions to our flight operations across all routes during this period,” the airline stated, while urging customers to contact its service team on 0800 221 221 for real-time updates and support.
Potential Impact on Air Travel
Jet A-1, a kerosene-based fuel used to power turbine-engine aircraft, is critical to airline operations. Shortages of the product, often caused by supply chain disruptions, refinery setbacks, logistical challenges or forex-related payment constraints, can severely impact flight schedules.
The shortage is expected to affect not only Passion Air but also other domestic carriers that rely on KIA for refuelling. International operators with regional stopovers in Accra may also be impacted should the situation persist.
Ghana, like many other developing economies, depends heavily on imported refined petroleum products, including Jet A-1. Ensuring a stable fuel supply hinges on factors such as international oil prices, access to foreign exchange, and an efficient distribution system. Any disruption in these areas can quickly translate into local shortages.
The GCAA’s issuance of a NOTAM is part of standard aviation protocol, allowing airlines and airport operators to plan contingencies, including rescheduling, diversions, or sourcing alternative refuelling options.
Broader Implications
This latest development comes at a time when Ghana’s aviation sector is gradually recovering from the broader downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing macroeconomic challenges.
Analysts warn that extended fuel shortages could result in significant financial losses for domestic airlines already operating under tight margins, while also inconveniencing passengers and reducing overall confidence in the reliability of air transport.
The coming days will prove crucial as stakeholders within the aviation fuel supply chain, including regulators, oil marketing companies and airport authorities, work to stabilise supply and minimise disruptions.
Meanwhile, Passion Air has pledged to keep the travelling public informed of developments and expressed its “sincere apologies” for the inconvenience caused to passengers.
