Following the unexpected closure of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, for emergency runway repairs, domestic airlines have begun diverting their operations to nearby airports. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) confirmed that the airport will remain closed from April 22 to May 6, 2025, to allow for urgent rehabilitation works on a damaged portion of the runway.
In response to this development, United Nigeria Airlines and Air Peace have announced temporary rerouting of flights. United Nigeria Airlines stated that all its flights to and from Enugu would now operate from the Chinua Achebe Airport in Anambra State, effective Saturday, April 19.
The airline released a statement saying:
“We regret to inform you that due to the sudden and immediate closure of the runway/aerodrome at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu—resulting from the poor state of the runway and related safety concerns—all United Nigeria Airlines flights to and from Enugu have been suspended. However, we understand the significant disruption this may cause to your Easter travel plans. As a result, we have rescheduled your flights to operate to and from Chinua Achebe Airport, Anambra. Passengers are advised to be at the airport at their scheduled time.”
Air Peace also confirmed that it had temporarily suspended flights to Enugu due to operational challenges caused by the runway condition.
“Please be informed that all flights scheduled into and out of Enugu will now be operated from Asaba International Airport. We regret any inconvenience this change may have caused,” the airline said in a statement.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) provided further details, stating that the decision to shut down the Enugu airport was taken after a sudden rupture in the asphalt surface was discovered on a critical section of the runway.
According to Obiageli Orah, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection:
“There is a sudden and significant rupture in the asphalt surface at a critical section of the runway. Hence, emergency repairs will be conducted from April 22nd to May 6th, 2025. The airport will not be open for landings or takeoffs during this period. This action is in full compliance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations and reflects FAAN’s commitment to passenger safety and airport modernisation.”
Travel Alternatives for Passengers
For passengers redirected to Anambra Airport, which is located in Umueri, the journey by road to Enugu covers approximately 100 to 110 kilometers, taking about 2 hours depending on traffic. This route is relatively direct via the Onitsha–Enugu Expressway.
Passengers flying into Asaba Airport will need to travel approximately 160 to 170 kilometers by road to Enugu. The drive may take 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The typical route crosses the Niger Bridge into Onitsha and continues on the Onitsha–Enugu Expressway.
FAAN apologized for the late notice and the inconvenience caused to travelers, especially during the Easter travel period. Passengers are encouraged to adjust their travel plans accordingly and reach out to their respective airlines for support and updated flight schedules.