Ebonyi Government Suspends Flights at Chuba Okadigbo Airport for Lighting Upgrade

The Ebonyi State Government has announced a temporary suspension of flight operations at the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport to complete the installation of advanced airfield lighting systems on the runway.

This move, according to the Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Mrs. Ngozi Obichukwu, is aimed at enhancing flight safety and enabling both night-time and poor weather landings and takeoffs. She noted that the installation is in its final phase, and the closure will last less than three weeks.

“We’ve finished the runway traffic lights. Now we’re hooking them up to the main power source, so we have to temporarily pause flight operations for safety,” she explained after inspecting the site.

Since becoming fully operational just three months ago, the airport has already recorded over 75 commercial and chartered flights, with passengers trooping in from areas like Lagos, Abuja, Ogbogbo, Obubra, Boki, Itigidi, Okigwe, and parts of Abia State.

Obichukwu praised Governor Francis Nwifuru for his commitment to transforming the airport into a world-class facility, ensuring that the airport is equipped with the latest technology for efficient operations.

Boosting Security and Infrastructure

In addition to the lighting project, the commissioner also announced major improvements in airport security. Retired military personnel have been deployed alongside the police and other security forces to protect the facility.

“These guards, drawn from Benue, Kogi, and Cross River states, are doing exceptionally well in keeping the airport secure,” she added.

The Ministry also unveiled a Jet A1 fuel bowser with a 12,000-litre capacity for refueling aircraft directly at the airport – a major boost for airlines operating in the region.

“Aircrafts with low fuel can now refill right here at the airport. This fuel service will be available continuously and is renewable every six months,” Obichukwu assured.

The government has urged the public to remain patient during the short closure, noting that these upgrades will significantly improve the travel experience and aviation standards in Ebonyi and the Southeast at large.