Airlines Suspend Flights To Enugu Airport As FAAN Shuts Runway For Repair

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.

LEADERSHIP gathered that the airport would be temporarily closed from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025, during the repairs.

In a statement by FAAN on Saturday, FAAN explained that there was a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway.

“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.

However, Ibom Air, in a statement earlier, said in light of the repairs, it had suspended all flights to and from Enugu within the affected period.

“Our 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,” the airline stated.

The airline said it regrets the inconvenience this disruption may cause and appreciates your understanding.

“The safety of our passengers remains our top priority, and we look forward to resuming full operations in Enugu once the runway maintenance is completed,” it added.

Also, Air Peace announced the temporary suspension of flights into and out of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

A statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo said flights scheduled for the airport will be operated into and out of Asaba.

It added that the safety of its passengers remained a priority to the airline, adding that the period would afford FAAN to carry out necessary repairs on the runway.