Bunia airport commercial flights halted again due to Ebola outbreak

The government suspended commercial air traffic at Bunia Airport in Ituri province for a second time, just five days after the airport reopened. The measure is described as an administrative and safety action linked to ongoing Ebola response efforts. Airport commander Paul Bunangana said the decision follows instructions from higher authorities, and the suspension applies to passenger flights while humanitarian and Ebola‑related flights remain permitted.

Travelers arriving at the airport on the weekend discovered their flights cancelled, with tickets refunded but no timeline given for when commercial service will resume. Local sources indicate the move is intended to tighten sanitary controls amid concerns that population movements could spread the virus, despite existing temperature checks, hand‑washing stations and screening procedures.