Airlines choose Asaba, Achebe airports for Enugu flight diversions

• Akanu Ibiam airport shut for runway repairs

Sade Williams/Business a.m.

Asaba Airport in Delta State and Chinua Achebe Airport Umueri in Anambra State are the choices of a couple of domestic airlines for their scheduled flights bound for Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu State following the temporary closure of Enugu airport by the Nigerian federal authorities.

A number of airlines, including Air Peace, Ibom Air, and United Nigeria Airline (UNA), have already suspended flights to Enugu airports, but while UNA has said it will divert flights scheduled for Enugu to Chinua Achebe Airport, Umueri, Anambra State, Air Peace said it will divert it’s flights to Asaba Airport temporarily.

Federal authorities announced the temporary closure of the Enugu airport for emergency runway repairs with Obiageli Orah, director, public affairs and consumer protection, explaining that there is a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway. She added that the emergency repairs will be conducted on that portion of the runway from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025.

According to Orah, all flights to the airport will be diverted to nearby airports.

“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,” Orah said.

The Nigeria federal airport managers appealed to all airport users and stakeholders for understanding and cooperation during the period of closure as all flights to the airport are diverted to nearby airports.

“We sincerely apologise for the late and unexpected notice regarding this closure,” she added.