Enugu airport to reopen after completion of runway tests

THERE are indications that the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu may be reopened for commercial flights as soon as all tests, skid trials and calibration of its runway are completed.

It was learnt that the reopening would not wait for the completion of other ongoing projects at the airport such as the airfield light job and others.

The airport was closed on August 24, 2019 for rehabilitation of its runway and upgrade of other infrastructure to meet international standards.

The Guardian learnt that work had progressed at the runway since workers of the construction company resumed from the COVID- 19 break amid the heavy rains and disruptions at the various borders through which dust bitumen get to the airport.

Chairman, South East Governors Airport Refurbishment and Palliative Works Committee, Chris Okoye, said the fiberglass and binder course being laid on the runway could not be exposed to water.

“Hopefully, the fiberglass and binder could be completed by next week. The wearing course should not take over 14 days and thereafter other jobs shall continue,” he said.