Fatshimetrie
The recent reduction in air traffic at Bunia airport in Ituri, due to the rehabilitation and widening works of the runway by the Mont Gabaon company, has caused a series of disruptions for airlines and passengers. The current dimensions of the runway are not sufficient to accommodate large aircraft, forcing airlines to use only small aircraft.
This restructuring has had a significant impact on flights, leading to situations where some passengers were disembarked due to lack of space on board, while others had to travel without their luggage. Tensions between passengers and airline staff reached such a level that incidents broke out, including when about ten customers of the Mont Gabaon company were disembarked and forced to bear additional costs for their unexpected stay.
Disgruntled passengers expressed their frustration by accusing the companies of fraud and demanding the reimbursement of their tickets as well as the reimbursement of unforeseen expenses. This delicate situation has highlighted the gaps in communication and management by airlines in the face of unforeseen circumstances such as the renovation works of the airport infrastructure.
Airport sources confirmed that the rehabilitation works of the runway will continue until 26 February 2025, which means that the restrictions imposed on air traffic could persist for an extended period. As a result, several airlines, such as Busy Bee Congo, Mont Gabaon, and Ituri Airlines, have had to adapt their fleets by using smaller aircraft to accommodate the current dimensions of the runway.
In addition, even MONUSCO has had to review its logistics and now relies entirely on helicopters to transport its agents and partners to Bunia. Faced with these air constraints, many travelers have chosen to favor land or lake routes to reach other destinations such as Goma, Bukavu and Kisangani, passing through neighboring countries such as Uganda and Rwanda.
As we await the completion of the runway rehabilitation works, it is crucial that airlines strengthen their communication with passengers and adopt proactive measures to minimise the inconvenience caused by these temporary disruptions. Furthermore, it is essential that airport authorities and airlines work closely together to ensure the safety, comfort and satisfaction of travellers during this transition period..
The renovation of Bunia airport is proving to be a major logistical challenge, but it also offers opportunities to improve airport infrastructure to meet the growing needs of the aviation sector in Ituri. Ultimately, this rehabilitation work will contribute to strengthening regional connectivity, boosting tourism and facilitating economic exchanges in the region.