The Taraba State Government has officially announced the temporary closure of Danbaba Suntai Airport in Jalingo for essential upgrade works aimed at modernising the facility.
The closure, approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), took effect immediately and is expected to last until December 20, 2024, when operations will resume.
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A statement released by Genesis Kwantar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation Development, outlined the scope of the upgrade. The improvements include the construction of drainage systems, a perimeter fence, and an upgraded Instrument Landing System.
Additionally, the airportโs runway will be extended from 2.4 kilometres to 3 kilometres, and two new fire tenders will be acquired.
Kwantar emphasised the Taraba State Government’s commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure, saying, โThis airport upgrade underscores the Taraba State Governmentโs commitment to improving transportation infrastructure. The enhanced facilities will not only benefit commuters within Taraba State but also strengthen connections to neighbouring states.โ
Residents of Jalingo and surrounding areas have been reassured that all efforts will be made to ensure the upgrade works are completed on time, with minimal disruption to air travel services once operations resume.