*The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria announces the closure for rehabilitation of a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, in Enugu State

Alexander Davis | 绿帽献妻

The Federal Government through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced a temporary closure of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to allow for essential runway rehabilitation.

The FAAN, in a statement at the weekend, explained that there is a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway.

The aviation regulatory agency also disclosed the needed emergency repairs would be conducted on that portion of the runway from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025.

The statement also noted: 鈥淚n compliance with Nigerian civil aviation regulations, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has, therefore, closed the runway during this period.

鈥淎s part of FAAN鈥檚 commitment to passenger safety and the modernisation of airport facilities, the runway will not be open for landings or takeoffs during the rehabilitation period.”

The aviation regulator stated: “FAAN appeals to all airport users and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation during this time.

“All flights to this airport will be diverted to nearby airports.”

FAAN as well apologised for the late and unexpected notice to travellers and other stakeholders regarding this closure.

Airlines suspend to flight operations to and from Enugu Airport

Meanwhile, Air Peace has suspended all flights scheduled to the Enugu Airport, following closure of its affected runway for emergency repairs.

The Nigerian airline, in a statement issued Saturday, April 18, 2025, attributed the decision to what it described as the deteriorating airport infrastructure, which it stated has continued to raise safety concerns.

The aviation company also complained about the airport runway, stating it has been causing a major disruption to its flights in recent times.

In regard to the urgent need to fix the runway, the statement noted: 鈥淎t Air Peace, we prioritise safety first over convenience.

“We believe that if flights are not operated into this aerodrome for the next few days, it will allow the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria the opportunity to perform the necessary repairs on the runway.”

Air Peace said all flights hitherto scheduled into and out of Enugu Airport would then, be operated from Asaba, in Delta State.

The company stated: 鈥淧lease be informed that all flights scheduled into and out of Enugu will now be operated into and out of Asaba.

鈥淲e regret any inconvenience this change may have caused.”

Likewise, Ibom Air earlier, had stated that it suspended all flights to and from Enugu within the affected period.

The local airline said: 鈥淥ur Customer Contact Centre will reach out to all passengers already booked on affected flights.

“In the meantime, passengers may explore alternative travel options via our desks at Lagos (LOS), Abuja (ABV), or Enugu (ENU) airports.”

Ibom Air further stated: 鈥淭he safety of our passengers remains our top priority, and we look forward to resuming full operations in Enugu, once the runway maintenance is completed.”

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