Aviation industry stakeholders gathered on Tuesday at the fifth Aviation Ghana Breakfast Meeting to deliberate on critical challenges facing Ghana’s aviation sector, with discussions focused on infrastructure development costs, regional competitiveness, and the recently approved Airport Infrastructure Development Charge.
The Airport Infrastructure Development Charge, passed by Parliament in December 2025, was introduced to finance major airport infrastructure projects across the country. The levy sets fees at $100 for international passengers and GHS100 for domestic travelers.
Revenue from the charge will be channeled into a dedicated fund and escrow account managed by the Ministry of Transport, according to Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of Ghana Airports Company Limited. She emphasized that funds are earmarked exclusively for airport infrastructure development nationwide.
The infrastructure development programme includes construction of a connecting concourse between Terminals 2 and 3 at Kotoka International Airport. The project aims to deliver seamless airside transfers and enhance transfer efficiency while aligning Accra’s airport experience with international hub standards.
Additional projects under the programme include a 10 aircraft capacity parking bay designated as the Northern Apron, scheduled to restart this year following a four year suspension due to funding constraints. A 2,000 capacity multi storey car park is also planned for KIA Terminal 3 to address vehicular congestion.
Stakeholders also examined rehabilitation works at Sunyani Airport, where arriving and departing passengers currently share the same space. A participant noted that the facility operates with a relatively short runway, limiting operations to small bodied aircraft and failing to meet International Civil Aviation Organization standards.
Plans for constructing new airports in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region and Wa in the Upper West Region were highlighted during discussions.
Long Term Investment Benefits
Speaking at the meeting, Mrs Opare cited Terminal 3 construction as an example of long term infrastructure benefits to Ghana’s aviation industry and air travelers. She posed a rhetorical question about the consequences of continuing to rely solely on Terminal 2 had Terminal 3 not been built.
She acknowledged that infrastructure expansion requires financial investment and called for accountability to ensure timely project completion. Mrs Opare expressed confidence that once developments such as connecting concourses, car parks, and new facilities become visible, passengers using them will better appreciate the investment value.
Industry Perspectives on Passenger Experience
Prof Kobby Mensah, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Tourism Development Company, stressed the importance of enhancing passenger experience through improved customer service. He noted that world class airport facilities would attract increased passenger traffic and position Ghana as a preferred destination.
Reverend Wilfred Arthur, Director General of Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, encouraged collaboration among stakeholders, airport authorities, and government agencies. He emphasized working together to realize the vision of establishing Ghana as the aviation hub of the sub region.
Regional Hub Aspirations
The meeting took place as Ghana continues efforts to enhance its aviation infrastructure and strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. Industry stakeholders acknowledged that achieving this goal requires sustained investment in facilities and services that meet international standards.
The discussions reflected broader considerations about balancing infrastructure investment needs with maintaining competitive pricing in the regional aviation market.
