South African Airways has placed acting CEO Matshela Seshibe on special leave pending an internal review, less than two months after his appointment. Chief legal officer Koekie Mbeki has immediately assumed the acting group CEO role, continuing a period of leadership instability following former CEO John Lamola’s departure and several recent board resignations.

Flights departing Cuba have fallen sharply since mid-February 2026 as renewed US sanctions and fuel shortages prompted airlines to suspend services. Data shows the seven-day average dropped by roughly half—from 67–73 daily departures in early 2026 to just 32–41 between late February and 5 August, with little recovery since.

Global jet fuel prices rose sharply, with northwest European prices reaching $1,377.50 per tonne on 11 August—around 9% higher than at the start of the month.
The increase reflects stronger crude prices, reduced Russian exports, Middle East supply uncertainty and shipping constraints on the Rhine River.
Although European inventories rose 6.3% during the week, they remain 37% below the previous year’s level.
Further refinery disruptions and logistical constraints could tighten supplies and increase airline operating costs beyond August.