In an effort to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of air travel, Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) has announced that Mfuwe International Airport (MIA) will soon undergo a period of rehabilitation, commencing on 13th June 2024, causing a temporal closure of the facility.
During the rehabilitation period, which is expected to last for 90 days, all domestic air traffic will be diverted to Chipata Airport.
According to a statement issued by ZACL Board Chairperson – Zevyanji Sinkala and availed to the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, rehabilitation is essential to maintain and enhance the airport’s infrastructure, ensuring it meets the highest standards of operational excellence.
“Mfuwe International Airport infrastructure has recorded marked deterioration, especially the Runway, Taxiway, and Apron Pavements which are critical to aircraft operations. This has necessitated the rehabilitation works which will encompass essential maintenance and upgrades aimed at enhancing the airport’s facilities and overall operational capacity. The scope of work will comprise the rehabilitation of the Runway, Taxiway, and Apron Pavements, the upgrade of the Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) System to replace the current one which is obsolete, and the re-construction of the Inner Perimeter Fence, and Extension of the Terminal Building.”
Sinkala said the aforementioned works have also been necessitated to comply with the Zambia Civil Aviation Requirements (ZCARs) as espoused by the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA).
“The Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministry of Transport and Logistics has aided in the provision of funds to rehabilitate critical airport facilities that will enhance the safety and security profile of Mfuwe International Airport.”
Chipata Airport is currently undergoing rehabilitation to meet the acceptable levels of safety and security needed for aircraft operations. This temporary relocation has been necessitated by the desire to minimise the impact of the disruption to passenger travel schedules that will be occasioned by the temporary closure of Mfuwe International Airport.
He said the decision to temporarily close Mfuwe International Airport has been made with the utmost consideration for the safety and comfort of all passengers and stakeholders. “In this vein, be rest assured that all stakeholders will be engaged to fully understand and appreciate this undertaking which is aimed at improving the safety and security profile of the airport, and its marketability.”
“Zambia Airports Corporation Limited remains committed to providing safe, efficient, and reliable airport and air navigation services, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this undertaking will cause. We look forward to welcoming our valued customers, passengers, airlines and Tenants back to an improved and upgraded Mfuwe International Airport upon the completion of the rehabilitation works.” He remarked.
