FAAN proposes 25-day closure of Owerri airport runway for repairs

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 carry out repairs and resurfacing.

FAAN disclosed this on Thursday, saying the closure was tentatively scheduled to begin on 20 October 2026, subject to final confirmation.

The authority said sections of the runway had deteriorated, with potholes and extensive surface cracks worsened by recent heavy rainfall.

The planned works will include pavement repairs, crack treatment and resurfacing of affected sections to improve the runway’s condition and safety.

FAAN said the repairs were also intended to prepare the airport for an anticipated increase in passenger and flight traffic during the Christmas season.

Runway extension planned

Beyond the repairs, the project will extend the runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft as air traffic to the region grows.

The authority said the extension was expected to improve the airport’s capacity and passenger experience.

However, FAAN did not provide details of the planned extension or specify how much additional runway length would be required.

The authority said the closure and reopening dates would be confirmed after consultations with relevant stakeholders.

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Passengers advised to contact airlines

FAAN advised passengers planning to travel through Owerri during the proposed closure period to contact their airlines for updates on flight schedules and alternative arrangements.

It said the confirmed closure and reopening dates would be communicated once finalised.

The proposed closure comes ahead of the Christmas travel season, when passenger and flight traffic is expected to increase.

The airport serves Owerri and surrounding communities in Imo State and the wider South-east region, making its runway condition and capacity important for maintaining safe flight operations and accommodating growing air traffic.