The airport in Bunia, capital of Ituri province, has entered a new phase of operations, with its upgraded runway now able to handle larger jet aircraft, including Airbus models, authorities said.

For years, air traffic at Bunia was limited by the technical constraints of its old runway.

The upgrade was demonstrated on April 20, 2026, when Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) landed a flight at the airport. Passengers and crew praised the improved runway, now extended and suitable for jet operations.

The work is part of a rehabilitation and modernization project launched in June 2022. It was carried out by Mont Gabaon SARLU under the supervision of the Bureau central de coordination (BCECO), at a cost of more than $48 million, according to the Finance Ministry.

The project included extending the runway to 2,500 meters, widening it, expanding the apron, and building a new terminal and control tower.

Initially scheduled for completion within 36 months, the project was delayed by technical and logistical challenges, including soil conditions and material supply issues. The airport remained operational throughout, supporting humanitarian and cargo operations.

With the upgrade complete, Bunia airport is now equipped to handle larger aircraft, which could boost passenger and freight traffic. The modernization is also expected to improve the province’s connectivity with the country’s main economic centers and strengthen its integration into the national economy.

Boaz Kabeya