Colombia Aviation Fuel Shortage Disrupts Flights

LATAM Airlines Colombia is facing a severe aviation fuel shortage, which has affected operations at Leticia, Montería, Bucaramanga, and Bogotá airports due to a power failure at the Cartagena Refinery that started on August 16, 2024. Ecopetrol reported an initial 8% deficit in Jet A1 fuel deliveries, later revised to 5%, prompting LATAM to adjust operations and refuel internationally. Despite President Gustavo Petro's statements claiming no shortage, Aerocivil has advised airlines to adjust their operations due to supply chain issues. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has also confirmed the fuel shortage crisis, as the situation has led airports to run out of fuel and reach critical levels. Ecopetrol is importing 100,000 barrels of Jet A1 fuel to help alleviate the crisis, expected to arrive between August 31 and September 2. The ongoing situation highlights the need for better contingency measures in the aviation fuel supply chain.