FG Temporarily Closes Enugu Airport Runway, Airlines Suspend Flights

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the temporary closure of the runway at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to allow for emergency repairs. The shutdown will take effect from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025, following what authorities described as a sudden and severe rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway.

In a statement issued Saturday, FAAN confirmed that the closure is in line with civil aviation regulations and is necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft. During the repair period, the runway will be unavailable for both takeoffs and landings. The authority appealed for understanding and cooperation from all airport users and stakeholders, noting that flights originally scheduled for Enugu will be diverted to alternative airports.

The closure has prompted airlines, including Air Peace and Ibom Air, to suspend their operations to and from the Enugu airport. Air Peace, in its statement, cited ongoing concerns over the deteriorating runway conditions, which have disrupted flight schedules. The airline emphasized that safety remains its top priority and said it supports FAAN’s decision to carry out repairs. Air Peace flights scheduled for Enugu will now operate out of Asaba, Delta State.

Ibom Air also confirmed the suspension of its Enugu operations during the maintenance period. The airline assured affected passengers that its customer service team will provide support, including exploring travel alternatives via other airports such as Lagos, Abuja, or Enugu once it reopens.

Both airlines expressed regret over the inconvenience caused and reaffirmed their commitment to passenger safety, with hopes of resuming normal services once the runway work is complete.