Airlines to adjust schedules, divert to P’H, Enugu as FAAN shut Owerri Airport for runway repair work

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is preparing to temporarily close the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, to carry out critical rehabilitation work on the runway and key terminal facilities.

Owerri Airport

The planned closure is part of ongoing safety compliance and infrastructure upgrade measures across domestic air hubs.

The closure will allow urgent runway resurfacing, upgrades to airfield lighting systems, and routine safety audits to bring the facility up to international operational standards.

Commercial airlines operating flights into Owerri will adjust schedules and temporarily re-route operations to nearby operational hubs such as Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, or Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa.

FAAN spokesman Mr Henry Agbebire said FAAN, in collaboration with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), will issue a formal NOTAM detailing the exact timeframe and duration of the closure once dates are finalised.

Air travellers booked on Owerri routes during the maintenance window are advised to confirm alternative arrangements directly with their respective airlines.

FAAN maintains that short-term operational disruptions are necessary to ensure long-term passenger safety, seamless flight operations, and enhanced structural integrity at the southeastern aviation gateway.

Wole Shadare