The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has proposed closing the runway at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State, for about 25 days to hold out repairs and resurfacing.
FAAN disclosed this on Thursday, saying the closure was tentatively scheduled to start on 20 October 2026, topic to ultimate affirmation.
The authority mentioned sections of the runway had deteriorated, with potholes and intensive floor cracks worsened by latest heavy rainfall.
The deliberate works will embrace pavement repairs, crack therapy and resurfacing of affected sections to enhance the runway’s situation and security.
FAAN mentioned the repairs had been additionally supposed to arrange the airport for an anticipated enhance in passenger and flight site visitors in the course of the Christmas season.
Runway extension deliberate
Beyond the repairs, the venture will prolong the runway to accommodate wide-body plane as air site visitors to the area grows.
The authority mentioned the extension was anticipated to enhance the airport’s capability and passenger expertise.
However, FAAN didn’t present particulars of the deliberate extension or specify how a lot extra runway size could be required.
The authority mentioned the closure and reopening dates could be confirmed after consultations with related stakeholders.
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Passengers suggested to contact airways
FAAN suggested passengers planning to journey by means of Owerri in the course of the proposed closure interval to contact their airways for updates on flight schedules and different preparations.
It mentioned the confirmed closure and reopening dates could be communicated as soon as finalised.
The proposed closure comes forward of the Christmas journey season, when passenger and flight site visitors is anticipated to extend.
The airport serves Owerri and surrounding communities in Imo State and the broader South-east area, making its runway situation and capability essential for sustaining protected flight operations and accommodating rising air site visitors.
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