Weekly Logistics Briefing Key logistics updates for the week
(Week 4 of April 2026)

Coal shipments from Richards Bay and KwaZulu-Natal to Israeli ports were reported to be moving alongside the civilian Global Sumud Flotilla mission bound for Gaza. South Africa stated that it has not banned coal exports to Israel or sanctioned companies involved in the trade. Past activist efforts that reportedly delayed cargo movements involving MSC MAYA were also cited again. The situation could place additional pressure on terminal activity and berth scheduling at major bulk ports.

India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said recent firing incidents in the Strait of Hormuz involved foreign-flagged vessels. No Indian-flagged ships were reported affected, and authorities stated that all Indian seafarers aboard the impacted vessels were safe, including 21 crew on EUPHORIA and one on EPAMINONDAS. As the Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as a critical global shipping corridor, the incident may influence voyage risk assessments, insurance costs, and schedule planning.

Renfe reportedly suspended nine rail services in Galicia after four Vigo-based drivers were absent simultaneously without prior notice. The disruption affected the Atlantic corridor linking Vigo, Santiago, Vilagarcia, and A Coruna, with the heaviest impact during early morning operations. Several regional services were cancelled across the network. Around 2,100 seats were estimated to have been removed from service for the day. Renfe introduced replacement buses and added station staff, while the event may highlight staffing-related operational vulnerability.

A ground collision between two aircraft reportedly occurred at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport while one aircraft was preparing to depart for São Paulo. Flight 756 was suspended and cancelled, requiring passengers to return to the terminal. No injuries were officially reported, and the cause remained under investigation. The incident could temporarily affect runway usage and aircraft rotation schedules. Additional delays may depend on inspections and recovery measures.

Sydney Airport reportedly shifted to single-runway operations after strong winds affected normal runway usage. Airservices Australia said it coordinated with airlines and weather authorities under crosswind safety limits. The disruption included 33 arrival cancellations and 24 departure cancellations, with further delays across the network. Although dual-runway operations were expected to resume later, schedule recovery may require additional time as airlines manage aircraft positioning and backlog traffic.