Airlines may have to ration jet fuel until late December, following the import of a bad batch.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is warning Christmas travel plans could be disrupted by the ruined fuel supply.
Z Energy told airlines last night a shipment of fuel had raised concerns during routine testing, and current supply needed to be conserved.
Z Energy's chief executive Mike Bennetts joined Katie Scotcher on Midday Report to discuss the issue.
What is the issue with high conductivity levels?
Independent experts say it's to do with the risks of static build up and explosions.
Auckland University Professor of Physical Chemistry Duncan McGillivray said, "Aviation fuel has naturally low conductivity, but higher than expected conductivity can occur through impurities. This is a risk for aviation fuels in particular, partly because it is important to have pure fuel in engines, but also because it can increase the chance that a static electric charge builds-up, especially if the fuel is pumped over long distance. This can lead to sparking and possible fuel explosions when pumping".
Z Energy's communications spokesperson said, "if conductivity is too high/above specifications it can affect fuel sensors which could result in fuel gauges providing incorrect readings. Fuel conductivity is kept above a certain level so it can be handled safely, this batch however was above what is allowed in accordance to the international jet specification regulations.
"We don’t know what caused this. At this stage the priority is working to manage the impacts to customers and resolve this issue as soon as possible. We will complete a full investigation to understand what has happened once we get through our immediate priorities... there are a range of factors that could influence conductivity levels and there is no benefit to speculate at this stage."
