Category: Airports

Sadiq Abubakar III International Airport, also known as Sultan Saddik Abubakar Airport, is an important airport serving Sokoto, the capital city of Sokoto State in Nigeria. The airport was initially built in 1983 by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

The airport derives its name from the 17th Sultan of Sokoto, Sadiq Abubakar III, who reigned from 1938 to 1988. It was commissioned in 1938, but unfortunately, parts of the airport were damaged by a severe rainstorm just a year later. The reconstruction process took several years to restore the facilities to their operational state.

As one of the major domestic airports in Nigeria, Sadiq Abubakar III International Airport adheres to the aviation authority’s regulations by providing essential facilities required for safe and efficient operations. In cases where the airport falls short of meeting international standards, it is promptly closed until the necessary rectifications are made to ensure a secure flying experience for customers.

Sadiq Abubakar III International Airport serves as a crucial transportation link for the primarily Muslim North-Western states of Nigeria. It plays a significant role in accommodating Muslim pilgrims traveling to holy sites and hosts airlines that operate international routes, connecting Sokoto with destinations beyond Nigeria’s borders. The airport serves as a vital gateway for the region, facilitating travel and fostering connectivity for both domestic and international passengers.

Port Harcourt International Airport is an important international airport situated in Omagwa, a suburb of Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State, Nigeria. The airport caters to both international and domestic flights and features two terminals to facilitate smooth operations.

Significant renovations and repairs were carried out at Port Harcourt International Airport, leading to its closure on August 18, 2006. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority announced the emergency shutdown to undertake crucial maintenance work, including runway overhauls and the construction of a protective fence around the facility. While plans for these repairs had been in progress for several months, an electrical fire on August 17, 2006, expedited the need for immediate action. Repair operations commenced in January 2007, however, concerns about engineer safety led to a suspension of the work in June 2007.

In December 2007, the airport reopened with limited capacity, restricting operations to daylight hours until the first quarter of 2008. By that time, the new CAT III lighting system had become fully operational, enabling round-the-clock operations. In 2015, Port Harcourt International Airport gained notoriety as it was labeled the worst airport in the world. During this period, construction was underway for a new passenger terminal.

The introduction of the new terminal aimed to address the challenges and enhance the airport’s facilities, marking a significant improvement in the overall travel experience for passengers. The inauguration of the new international terminal took place on October 25, 2018, with President Muhammadu Buhari. In 2009, Port Harcourt International Airport served a total of 1,081,587 passengers.

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) is a significant international airport located in Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria, serving as the primary airport for the entire state. The airport holds historical significance as it was originally constructed during World War II. It is named after Murtala Muhammed (1938–1976), the fourth military ruler of Nigeria.

The airport’s roots can be traced back to the establishment of the West African Airways Corporation in 1947, which had its main base at Ikeja. Initially, De Havilland Doves were utilized for both domestic and West African routes operated by the corporation.

Originally known as Lagos International Airport, the name was changed in the mid-1970s during the construction of a new international terminal. The decision was made to honor Murtala Muhammed, a former Nigerian military head of state. The design of the new terminal took inspiration from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and was officially inaugurated on March 15, 1979. Murtala Muhammed International Airport serves as the main operational hub for Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, as well as several other Nigerian carriers.

Recognizing the need for further expansion and modernization, the Federal Government of Nigeria approved a loan on September 6, 2012, for the construction of five new international terminals, including a passenger terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. This initiative aimed to enhance the airport’s capacity and facilities. Subsequently, on March 22, 2022, the new international terminal was officially commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari. With the ability to process 14 million passengers annually, this state-of-the-art terminal signifies a significant milestone in the Murtala Muhammed International Airport‘s development and capacity enhancement efforts.

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, located in Kano, the capital city of Kano State in Nigeria, is an important international airport serving the region. Initially established as a Royal Air Force station during the colonial era, the airport has evolved into a vital transportation hub for northern Nigeria. It was named after the renowned politician Aminu Kano.

The airport comprises both an international and a domestic terminal, with the construction of a new domestic terminal completed and commissioned on May 23, 2011. In 2009, the airport facilitated the travel of 323,482 passengers. A significant portion of international flights from the airport caters to the sizable Sudanese community in Kano, as well as facilitating Muslim pilgrimages to Mecca.

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport holds the distinction of being the oldest airport in Nigeria, with operations commencing in 1936. During its early years, the airport served as an important refueling point for long-haul flights between Europe and Africa. However, as newer aircraft no longer required such refueling stops and the Kano economy declined in the late 20th century, many international airlines ceased their services to the airport.

The airport accommodates both civilian and military flights, with Runway 06/24 primarily utilized for civilian operations. Meanwhile, Runway 05/23 predominantly serves the Nigerian Air Force base situated on the southern side of the airport. During the rehabilitation of the main runway at the beginning of the 21st century, all operations were temporarily shifted to Runway 05/23. The terminal facilities of Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport are situated between these two runways, facilitating efficient passenger movement and airport operations.

Kaduna International Airport is a significant air transportation hub serving Kaduna, the capital city of Kaduna State in Nigeria. Situated approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of the city center, the airport has played a crucial role in connecting Kaduna with other regions since its establishment in 1982.

Notably, Kaduna also boasts an older airport located on the northern outskirts of the city. However, this airport has been relocated from its original site, which is now utilized for the Aviation College’s flight training purposes. The new Kaduna International Airport serves as the primary gateway, facilitating domestic and international air travel for the region.

Tragically, the airport faced a distressing incident on March 26, 2022, when it was targeted by bandits. During the attack, a security guard tragically lost their life, highlighting the security challenges faced by the airport and the region as a whole.

Despite this unfortunate event, Kaduna International Airport continues to fulfill its crucial role in enhancing connectivity and promoting economic development. The airport serves as an important hub for both passenger and cargo flights, enabling travelers and businesses to access various domestic and international destinations. Efforts are continuously made to ensure the safety and security of the airport, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of air traffic in and out of Kaduna, thereby contributing to the region’s growth and connectivity.

Ilorin International Airport is an airport located in Kwara State, Nigeria, serving the city of Ilorin. Owned and operated by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), it is situated approximately 1.8 kilometers from downtown Ilorin. The airport features a single runway measuring 3,100 meters in length and 60 meters in width.

Functioning as a secondary airport to Lagos Airport, Ilorin International Airport is positioned around an hour’s drive away from Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State. Recent renovations have been undertaken on the airport’s terminal building, enabling it to accommodate up to 500 passengers simultaneously.

The commissioning of the airport was carried out by President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also laid the foundation for the construction of the airport’s cargo shed. Originally inaugurated on February 16, 1978, the airport was later upgraded to international status in 2012. As the primary airport serving Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, Nigeria, Ilorin International Airport plays a vital role in air transportation.

Ilorin International Airport is well-connected to various destinations, with popular routes including Abuja, Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Kano. Air Peace and Azman Air are the two airlines currently serving the airport, offering flights to Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Ongoing improvements at the airport encompass the construction of a new terminal building and the expansion of the runway. These enhancements aim to enhance the airport’s efficiency and capacity, facilitating an increase in passenger volume by over 20% compared to previous years.

Akanu Ibiam International Airport, popularly known as Enugu Airport, serves the vibrant city of Enugu, which is the capital of Enugu State in Nigeria. Enugu holds the nickname of the ‘coal city,’ reflecting its historical significance as a prominent center of the coal mining industry. The airport not only caters to Enugu but also facilitates connectivity for nearby cities such as Abakaliki, Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Afikpo, Okigwe, Nsukka, Ugep, Orlu, Idah, Otukpo, and Ogoja, thus serving as an essential transportation hub for the region.

The airport is named in honor of the late Akanu Ibiam (1906–1995), a distinguished medical practitioner and statesman from Afikpo in Ebonyi State. This recognition pays tribute to his contributions and achievements.

In February 2010, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) made the decision to temporarily close the airport to commence significant renovation and expansion works during the first phase of the project. After undergoing extensive improvements, Akanu Ibiam International Airport reopened its doors on December 16, 2010, marking the completion of the initial phase of construction. However, subsequent phases of the development, aimed at further enhancing the airport’s facilities, are still ongoing. These ongoing improvements are in line with the airport’s preparations to attain its new status as an international airport, expanding its capabilities and increasing its capacity to handle international flights.

Enugu remains a vital center of political, cultural, commercial, and administrative influence in the southeastern part of Nigeria. Akanu Ibiam International Airport serves as a crucial gateway to the region, promoting regional development, and economic growth, thanks to its strategic location and continuous improvements.

Anambra International Airport, also referred to as Umueri Cargo Airport, serves the region of Umueri (Umuleri) and its surrounding areas in Anambra State, located in southeastern Nigeria. The development of the Umueri Cargo Airport project was initiated by the Anambra State government on April 11, 2017, and after four years of construction, it was completed in April 2021.

The official inauguration of Anambra Airport took place on October 30, 2021, with Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State leading the ceremony. Subsequently, on November 2, 2021, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) granted the Anambra State Government the necessary authority to commence commercial operations at Anambra Airport.

Following the regulatory approval, the airport officially commenced commercial operations on December 7, 2021, just five days after receiving authorization. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s decision marked a significant milestone for the airport and opened up new opportunities for air travel in the region. During its first month of operations, Anambra Airport handled a total of 142 flights and facilitated the transportation of 3,865 passengers.

The completion and subsequent opening of Anambra International Airport have not only enhanced connectivity for the people of Umueri and surrounding areas but have also provided a boost to the economic development of Anambra State and the region as a whole. The airport serves as a vital hub for both cargo and passenger operations, facilitating trade, and economic growth in the area.

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is a prominent international airport situated in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. It serves as the primary airport for the country’s capital city and is named after Nnamdi Azikiwe, who served as Nigeria’s first President from 1904 to 1996. Positioned about 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of Abuja, this airport accommodates both international and domestic flights through its single runway, which is shared by an international terminal and a domestic terminal.

To enhance Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport‘s capabilities, the new terminal was constructed in 2000 by Julius Berger in close proximity to the existing terminal. This modern terminal, which commenced operations in 2002, primarily caters to international flights. Subsequently, the pre-existing terminal now exclusively handles domestic flights.

Recognizing the need for urgent repairs to the airport’s runway, the Nigerian Government awarded a contract to Julius Berger in 2017 for its emergency rehabilitation. Originally designed to have a lifespan of 20 years, the runway had been in use for almost 40 years at the time of the contract.

In addition to its commercial operations, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport operates a dedicated private jet wing that caters to businesses, diplomats, and politicians in the city. To further enhance private jet operations, the Ministry of Transportation announced plans in 2016 for a new terminal, encompassing the construction of a new protocol Lounge and the rehabilitation of the airport’s fire station. These enhancements aim to better serve non-scheduled flights and meet the needs of private jet travelers.