The Federal Government has approved more than ₦46 billion for the reconstruction of critical airside infrastructure at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), with work already underway. Despite the massive investment, no airport closure or flight suspension has been announced, though passengers are urged to stay alert for potential adjustments as construction progresses.
Why the rehabilitation?
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the project during the commissioning of the remodelled domestic terminal in Kano. He stated that the government has earmarked over ₦46 billion for the work, with approximately 60% of the funds already released to contractors. The rehabilitation covers complete resurfacing of the runway, reconstruction of taxiways, major runway improvements, and additional airside infrastructure upgrades. The project is part of President Bola Tinubu's aviation infrastructure upgrade programme, aimed at ensuring the airport can safely accommodate both domestic and international flights.
Will the airport close?
Not at the moment. No official closure has been declared by the Federal Government, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), or the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). No Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) announcing a runway shutdown has been issued. Domestic and international flights continue as scheduled, and the newly remodelled domestic terminal is operational. However, passengers should expect possible operational adjustments when major construction enters more intensive phases.
Are there official closure dates?
No. As of now, neither the Ministry, FAAN, nor NCAA has released closure dates, partial closures, or a completion timeline. Authorities are expected to provide advance notice before any disruption to scheduled flights.
Which flights could be affected?
Since no closure has been announced, no airline has suspended Kano operations due to the rehabilitation. If temporary runway closures become necessary later, busy domestic routes to Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, Yola, and other northern cities are most likely to be impacted. International flights, especially those for Hajj and Umrah seasons, could also face schedule changes. Passengers are advised to rely on official airline communications rather than social media rumours.
Airlines operating at Kano
Several carriers serve MAKIA, including Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines, Max Air, ValueJet (on selected services), and Overland Airways (where scheduled). International operators also use the airport for regional and Middle Eastern connections. Any future operational changes will be announced directly by the affected airlines.
Passenger rights: refunds and rebooking
Under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, if flights are cancelled or significantly changed by the airline due to operational issues, passengers are entitled to options such as free rebooking on the next available flight, rerouting where possible, or a refund, depending on the circumstances and fare conditions. Travellers should avoid cancelling tickets themselves before receiving official guidance, as voluntary cancellations may have different rules.
Alternative airports
If temporary closures become necessary, passengers might consider nearby airports. Kaduna Airport serves as an alternative for some northern travellers, Katsina Airport offers limited domestic operations, and Abuja Airport provides the best connectivity for longer-distance journeys. The best option will depend on airline schedules and travel time by road.
Other upgrades at Kano airport
FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku announced that work will also begin on expanding and rehabilitating the airport's Hajj terminal to improve services for pilgrims. The recently remodelled domestic terminal now includes upgraded baggage handling systems, improved conveyor systems, new air-conditioning, mechanical rehabilitation, and enhanced passenger facilities. These upgrades are designed to improve comfort and restore MAKIA's status as a key aviation hub in northern Nigeria.
