Morocco lifts exceptional aviation fuel measures after delayed shipments arrive

Moroccan aviation authorities on Monday lifted exceptional measures imposed due to a temporary shortage of jet fuel at the country’s airports, after delayed fuel shipments arrived and unloading resumed at the port of Jorf Lasfar, an official source tells Hespress AR.

The measures were withdrawn early Monday after fuel cargoes that had been stranded offshore because of severe weather were finally able to dock, the source said. The decision reversed a notice to air missions that had been set to remain in effect until Feb. 13.

According to the source, Jorf Lasfar port has resumed unloading vessels carrying aviation fuel, including kerosene. One tanker transporting about 35,000 metric tons of kerosene had been held at sea for more than 15 days due to weather-related disruptions that prevented access to the port. Unloading has now begun to address supply shortfalls affecting the national air fleet.

A senior government source overseeing the aviation sector said Saturday that Morocco’s jet fuel reserves had declined in recent weeks because of persistent weather disturbances but stressed that the situation remained under control and did not pose a cause for concern.

The source said precautionary measures were standard in cases of unusual disruptions, particularly as heavy rainfall affected fuel imports through ports, including northern ports and Jorf Lasfar.

As part of the temporary response, the National Airports Office, in coordination with the relevant ministry, had requested that some incoming flights, especially short- and medium-haul flights from nearby European countries, land with full fuel tanks to extend reserve coverage.

By Monday morning, authorities suspended the exceptional measures after several ships successfully unloaded their cargoes. Available fuel stocks, despite pressure at some facilities, were managed within approved safety margins, the source said.