In a bid to comply with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)-approved safety Standard and Recommended Practices, (SARPs), the management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) yesterday stated that there would be no flights to and from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja.

The temporary closure of the airport to traffic between Saturday and Monday next week, according to FAAN, is to pave the way for the urgent rehabilitation of the runway at the airport.

The facility upgrade, according to the General Manager, is in line with ICAO requirements and NCAA approved safety and Standard and Recommended Practices would further elevate safety and security to greater heights.
He, however, stated that FAAN apologised for the inconveniences the temporary closure would cause air passengers and airline operators.

A statement signed by the Coordinating General Manager, Aviation Parastatals, Mr. Yakubu Dati, said: “The management of FAAN wishes to inform the public, especially aviation stakeholders and intending passengers that the runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja will be closed to traffic for maintenance from Saturday, July 5 to Monday, July 7”

Dati added: “Notice to all Airmen (NOTAM) of closure at 2300 UTC on Saturday, July 5 and reopening at 0500 UTC on Monday, July 7, has already been issued at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Internatioal Airport, Abuja, notifying all airlines, sister agencies and critical stakeholders.”