Air Peace and Ibom Air Airlines have suspended operations at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, following its closure by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for essential runway maintenance works.
Air Peace, in a statement on Saturday morning, attributed the development to what it described as the deteriorating airport infrastructure, which it said has continued to raise safety concerns.
The airline complained about the airport runway, which it said has been causing a major disruption to its flights. Necessitating the decision to suspend further flights into the airport until further notice.
Also, Ibom Air in a statement earlier, said it had suspended all flights to and from Enugu within the affected period.
Consequently, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced a temporary closure of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to allow for essential runway maintenance works.
In a statement by FAAN on Saturday, it explained that there is a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway.
Emergency repairs will be conducted on that portion of the runway from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025.
“In compliance with Nigerian civil aviation regulations, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has, therefore, closed the runway during this period.
“As part of FAAN’s commitment to passenger safety and the modernisation of airport facilities, the runway will not be open for landings or takeoffs during the rehabilitation period.
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 stated.
The authority apologised for the late and unexpected notice regarding this closure.
