Transport

MBIE aware of bad batch of aviation fuel

08:23 am on 7 December 2022

Listen

Upcoming Christmas travel plans could be disrupted with a bad batch of aviation fuel forcing rationing for airlines. 

Z Energy, which is the owner of the dud shipment, told airlines last night they'd need to conserve fuel in coming weeks.

Morning Report asked Minister of Energy and Resources, Megan Woods to come on to the programme, but her office directed producers to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

In a statement, MBIE's Deputy Secretary for Building, Resources and Markets, Paul Stocks, says:

"We have been made aware of a potential impact to jet fuel supply into Auckland Airport, after routine fuel testing of a particular jet fuel shipment raised some concerns.

"Suppliers (Z, Mobil and BP) are currently working through this to fully understand the current levels of supply and what options are available to resolve this matter as soon as possible.

"Sometimes fuel does fail a quality test and suppliers are normally able to manage such events without consumers being affected. This situation will be managed in a way that minimises any impacts on customers. There is no risk to petrol or diesel supplies.

"The next shipment of jet fuel is due on 12 December and work is underway to understand the potential impact on airlines and air travel, if any. We expect airlines to advise customers of any impacts once these are better understood.

"The Minister of Energy and Resources is being kept informed of developments."