Air Peace Soars Back to Enugu as Airport Runway Roars to Life

Nigeria’s skies are buzzing again as Air Peace, the country’s leading airline, triumphantly resumes flights to Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, following a critical runway overhaul. The Federal Government announced the airport’s reopening on April 27, 2025, after emergency repairs, allowing airlines to reconnect Enugu’s vibrant hub with the nation, as reported by Legit.ng. For travelers, this is a lifeline restored, promising smoother journeys and a boost to the region’s economy.The runway, plagued by a sudden asphalt rupture, was shut down on April 18, 2025, forcing Air Peace to divert flights to Asaba Airport, according to a statement from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The repairs, originally set to wrap by May 6, were completed ahead of schedule, a feat hailed by Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo. Air Peace, prioritizing passenger safety, had suspended Enugu operations due to the runway’s poor condition and a strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which halted flights nationwide on April 23. With the strike lifted and the runway now cleared, flights resumed on April 28, 2025, as confirmed by Air Peace’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo.For Nigerians, this means more than just flights. Enugu, a key southeastern city, relies on its airport for business, family visits, and tourism. The closure disrupted plans, leaving traders and students stranded. Now, with Air Peace’s Boeing 737s touching down again, the city’s pulse is quickening. The airline’s swift return underscores its dominance, serving over 30 destinations across Nigeria and West Africa, as noted by Travelstart.com.ng.Yet, the joy comes with a shadow of caution. Nigeria’s aviation sector faces recurring challenges—strikes, aging infrastructure, and safety concerns. FAAN’s proactive repairs are a step forward, but the nation’s airports need sustained investment to avoid future scares. As Air Peace wings back to Enugu, a deeper question lingers: can Nigeria keep its skies open for good, or will turbulence strike again? For now, Enugu soars, and travelers breathe easier.