Flight operations return to Ebonyi as governor inspects revamped airport

Flight operations at Chuba Okadigbo Airport in Onueke, Ebonyi State, are set to resume in November, according to Mrs. Ngozi Obichukwu, the State Commissioner for Aviation.

This announcement was made during Governor Francis Nwifuru’s recent inspection of the airport, coinciding with the state’s 28th anniversary celebrations.

Obichukwu explained that the only delay in resuming flights stemmed from the runway’s condition, which had undergone significant rehabilitation.

“The 3.1-kilometre runway can accommodate five aircraft at a time and was asphalted by the current administration,” she noted.

Previous operations were hampered due to flaws in the runway’s construction, which could not support most aircraft.

The asphalting project began in October 2023 and concluded on July 8, 2024. Following an inspection by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Obichukwu is optimistic about receiving approval for flight operations by November.

“We commend Gov. Nwifuru for fulfilling his promise of rehabilitating the runway, which is now one of the best in the country,” she stated, noting sadness over the passing of the lead engineer who oversaw the project.

Governor Nwifuru, represented by Deputy Patricia Obila, expressed gratitude for the timely completion and highlighted the substantial investment in the project.

“This is one of the best airports around the world, and I pray that no life will be lost in the facility,” he affirmed while urging the naming of a plaza in honour of the late engineer.