Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has finally agreed to shut down the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, for major repairs.

The closure of the runway will take effect from August 24, according to a statement by the spokesperson of FAAN, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu.

Federal Government through immediate past Minister of State for Aviation, Mr Hadi Sirika, had said the closure of the runway was inevitable following some security concerns which pose threat to flight operations.

Apart from the runway which is in a dilapidated condition, the proximity of a market to the runway as well as a broadcast mast is said to be posing challenges to safe operations.

It was learnt that the move to close the runway for extensive operations came after series of consultation between FAAN and Enugu State Government.

FAAN Managing Director, Mr Hamisu Yadudu met several times with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on finding workable solutions to challenges facing the airport.

FAAN yesterday notified airlines, passengers and all other stakeholders that the runway “will be closed for major repairs and works on the airfield.”

The authority said the move “is aimed at resolving existing Safety/Security concerns to flight operations. A date to reopen the runway will be communicated in due course.”

Daily Trust