The Manager, Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport (SMICA), Dr. Nkechi Ihekwaba, has called on investors, airline operators, and individuals to capitalize on the airport’s rapid growth.
Speaking at the Aviation Business Summit and Expo 2024 in Lagos, Dr. Ihekwaba highlighted SMICA’s potential for investment.
The airport, she noted, can accommodate four B737 800 series aircraft and ten smaller aircraft simultaneously, along with advanced firefighting services.
Despite being a community airport, SMICA has consistently attracted significant passenger traffic.
During peak periods, it records a minimum of 62,000 passengers monthly, while off-peak traffic averages 39,000 passengers.
Dr. Ihekwaba attributed the airport’s success to its strategic location in Imo State, a region rich in natural resources.
She emphasized the airport’s potential for passenger growth, citing the terminal building’s capacity of 1200 passengers, which often exceeds to 2000 during peak times.
Under her leadership, SMICA has implemented a robust maintenance culture, achieving a 98% efficiency rate.
The airport is currently served by four airlines: Air Peace, United Nigeria, Green African Airways, and Dana Airways (temporarily suspended).
In 2015, the airport was upgraded to an international cargo airport, thanks to the approval of former President Goodluck Jonathan. This expansion included the construction of a cargo terminal with warehouse facilities.
Dr. Ihekwaba emphasized her commitment to maintaining critical facilities and ensuring a safe and efficient operating environment.
She highlighted the airport’s strong security network, fostered through positive relationships with security agencies, local communities, and the state government.
The airport manager also addressed abandoned projects, assuring investors that she is actively pursuing their completion. One such project, the airfield lighting installation, is nearing completion and awaiting final approval from aviation regulatory authorities.
Dr. Ihekwaba emphasizing SMICA’s strategic location and its potential to serve the growing market in the South-South and South-East regions of Nigeria.
