It has emerged that the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport is shut down temporarily to enable the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to undertake the upgrade of some of the facilities.
Apart from upgrading the current runway to a higher standard, it was gathered that it would be extended in anticipation of the increased traffic during the yuletide period.
Both the federal and Imo State governments are said to be collaborating on the project to ensure that FAAN delivers by the expected deadline.
Investigation by our reporter revealed that the action of FAAN was predicated on the expected volume of travellers who will use the airport during the December period.
Both Imo indigenes and their neighbours from Abia rely heavily on the airport for their air transportation.
The closure of the airport for the upgrade of facilities commenced on Monday and will last for approximately 25 days.
FAAN had earlier explained that the runway was shut to carry out essential repairs, surface crack treatments, resurfacing, and runway extensions ahead of the Christmas travel season.
The runway extension is to enable the airport to handle larger aircraft.
