SIBU: The Sibu Airport will be closed until noon tomorrow to allow restoration works on its damage tarmac.
Malaysia Airport Holding Bhd's Sibu Airport manager Zainuddin Abu Nasir said checks showed there was a big gap on the tarmac after the recovery team removed the Malaysia Airlines aircraft, which skidded off the runaway on Saturday night.
"We are in the midst of reparing the damages by covering the hole and cleaning the area for the safety of all passengers.
"The airport have also issued a notice on the extension of closure to all affected airlines operators," said Zainuddin.
He had initially announced that the airport would be closed until 8pm to allow for the removal of the aircraft.
Flight MH2718 from Kuala Lumpur skidded off the runaway upon landing during heavy downpour at the Sibu Airport near here on Saturday night. All 67 passengers and crews were not injured in the 10.17pm incident.
The aircraft’s nose gear collapsed after it went off Runaway 13 and landed on a soft ground.