Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
The current situation regarding fuel supply for airplanes in Colombia has generated growing concern among airlines and passengers, following alarms raised by several distributors about "critical inventories" at various terminals across the country. Colombia's largest airline, Avianca, has warned of an immediate restriction on the delivery of Jet Fuel, leading to flight cancellations and adjustments to scheduled itineraries for the upcoming weeks. Concern began to manifest when José María Córdova International Airport, serving the city of Medellín, reported the cancellation of eight flights due to a lack of fuel, although the message was quickly removed. This incident hinted at the seriousness of the situation, as the lack of supply affects not only the airlines but also passengers who depend on these services for their mobility. Despite the alarming outlook, President Gustavo Petro has stated that "there is no fuel shortage" and has urged the agencies responsible for overseeing companies to investigate the reasons behind the fuel shortages at certain airports. Petro emphasized that gasoline supply is normal and that there are no flight disruptions attributable to this lack. However, his statement contrasts with the reality faced by airlines and passengers. The crisis has arisen due to an increase in fuel demand and a recent electrical failure at the Cartagena Refinery, which, although it has not caused a complete shortage, has affected production. Ecopetrol, the country's main oil company, has acknowledged that this situation has led to a reduction in fuel availability, forcing the company to import 100,000 barrels to counteract the deficit. Ecopetrol's president, Ricardo Roa, indicated that there is currently a 95% availability of the current demand for aviation fuel, although this has not prevented difficulties at several airports. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has also alerted about the shortages, which vary depending on each terminal, and announced measures to rationalize fuel consumption, including the possibility of operating with fewer passengers and suspending some flights. Among the most affected cities are Leticia, Montería, and Bucaramanga, where fuel inventories have run out. In Bogotá, which accounts for more than 60% of national air operations, the situation is at critical levels, which could create even more complications for air mobility in the country. Airlines have already begun to implement emergency measures, with Avianca leading this adjustment in response to fuel limitations. The company has temporarily halted the sale of some flights and is adjusting itineraries to adapt to the new supply reality. Passengers have the option to request rebookings for their scheduled flights between August 25 and September 4. The political climate has also been affected by this crisis, with the opposition accusing Petro's government of appointing individuals without the necessary experience to lead Ecopetrol, which could have contributed to the current supply shortage. Meanwhile, the government is trying to calm tensions and assure that measures are being taken to resolve the issue. As the crisis progresses, passengers and airlines find themselves in limbo, hoping that the situation normalizes and that fuel supply is restored at all airports in the country. The uncertainty is palpable, and many are questioning whether the government will be able to manage this crisis effectively before it causes irreparable damage to air mobility in Colombia. Coordination among authorities, airlines, and fuel distributors will be key to overcoming this contingency.