Flights have recommenced at the Hassan Usman Katsina International Airport, Kaduna, signaling the end of a prolonged suspension prompted by security threats. The airport, which faced a terrorist attack in March 2022, leading to a temporary shutdown, has now reopened with the arrival of Air Peace flight ERJ-145 on Monday evening, bringing relief to passengers and resuming normalcy on the Lagos-Kaduna route.
The state government, under Malam Nasir El-Rufai, had confirmed the terrorist attack, where over 200 assailants seized control of the airport, preventing the take-off of aircraft. Consequently, passengers on the Lagos-Kaduna route were rerouted to either Kano or Abuja, requiring additional travel by road to reach their destination.
The return of flights to Kaduna was met with expressions of joy from passengers who had eagerly awaited the resumption of normal operations. They called on the government and relevant agencies to ensure sustained functionality and security at the Kaduna Airport.
The Airport Manager, Adamu Sheikh, addressed the media shortly after the landing of the Air Peace flight, expressing optimism about the future. He conveyed that more airlines were poised to recommence operations in the state, and rigorous security measures were in place to safeguard both arrivals and departures.
“More airlines are coming back, and we are prepared. We have the cooperation of all the security agencies. Everybody wants this airport to function. So, all stakeholders are rallying around us to ensure that this airport is safe for aircraft landing and take-off,” said Sheikh.
Fatima Ndayako, the Air Peace Kaduna Station Manager, explained that the airline responded to persistent customer requests for their service along the Kaduna route, prompting their return. She assured passengers of daily operations between Kaduna and Lagos, underscoring the airline’s commitment to meeting the demand along this critical route.
The revival of flight operations in Kaduna was facilitated by the state governor, Senator Uba Sani, who engaged with airline executives in Abuja. Governor Sani also held discussions with the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and senior military officers, aiming to ensure the necessary measures were in place to guarantee the safety and resumption of regular air travel.
As Kaduna Airport welcomes back flights, the collective efforts of the government, security agencies, and stakeholders underscore the commitment to restoring normalcy, instilling confidence among travelers, and reinvigorating the aviation sector in the region.
