Enugu Airport Temporarily Closed For Emergency Runway Repairs.
The Federal Government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has announced the temporary closure of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to allow for urgent runway repairs.
According to a statement issued on Saturday in Lagos by Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the runway will be closed from 22nd April to 6th May due to a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway.
“In compliance with Nigerian civil aviation regulations, FAAN has closed the runway during this period,” the statement read. “As part of our commitment to passenger safety and the modernisation of airport infrastructure, the runway will not be open for landings or takeoffs while repairs are being carried out.”
FAAN has appealed to passengers, airlines, and all stakeholders for understanding and cooperation during the two-week rehabilitation period. All flights scheduled to the Enugu airport will be diverted to nearby airports, including the Chinua Achebe Airport in Anambra.
The authority also apologised for the late notice of the closure, citing the emergency nature of the situation.
In response to the development, domestic airlines such as Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines have suspended their operations to the airport. Both carriers acknowledged the inconvenience to passengers, particularly during the busy Easter travel period.
Chibuike Uloka, Public Relations Officer for United Nigeria Airlines, said: “As a result, we have rescheduled your flights for today, April 19, to operate to and from the Chinua Achebe Airport, Anambra, should this be convenient for you.”
Passengers willing to travel via Anambra are advised to arrive at the airport at their originally scheduled flight times.
Meanwhile, Dr Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace, noted that the airline had been experiencing disruptions due to the state of the Enugu runway and welcomed the repairs.
“We regret to inform you that all flights scheduled to Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, are temporarily suspended due to safety concerns,” Ndiulo stated. “This suspension will enable FAAN to carry out the necessary rehabilitation effectively.”
The runway repair project underscores FAAN’s commitment to ensuring safety and operational efficiency at Nigeria’s airports. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed of updates from their respective airlines and the airport authority during this period.
