Transport Minister Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe has called on domestic airline operators to consider adjusting ticket prices downward in response to the strengthening of the Ghanaian cedi against foreign currencies.
Speaking at a stakeholder forum organised by the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in Accra, Mr. Nikpe highlighted that the recent appreciation of the cedi should translate into reduced costs across key sectors, including aviation.
He encouraged airlines to follow the example set by road transport operators, who have already revised their fares in line with changing economic conditions.
“The domestic airlines (Passion Air and Africa World Airlines) have said they are working at it considering other factors, we are hoping that very soon they would have ended their deliberations and we will see some fare reduction,” he stated.
The meeting, aimed at addressing sector challenges and discussing Ghana’s ambition to become a top aviation hub in West Africa, brought together aviation industry stakeholders, including regulators, service providers, and policymakers.
Mr. Nikpe also provided updates on infrastructure development in the aviation sector. He revealed that the ongoing expansion of the Kumasi Airport runway—from 1,981 metres to 2,320 metres—is scheduled for completion by the end of the year.
Additionally, the Transport Minister disclosed that plans were underway to make full use of the Ho Airport by establishing a pilot training academy.
“We are looking at putting the Ho Airport into good use by establishing a pilot training academy. We know that this will create jobs, boost the local economy in Ho and its surroundings, and provide the needed human resources to service the aviation sector,” he added.
He further urged international airlines operating in Ghana to patronise local service providers, including catering, entertainment, and news content, as a way to support Ghana’s economy.
“The aviation sector, if properly developed and maintained, will see an economic improvement in our lives because this is the only industry that can connect us, that can lead us in all our businesses and trades throughout the world,” he said.
Mr. Nikpe also appealed for cooperation from all aviation stakeholders as the 10-member task force working on establishing a national airline continues its consultations.
At the same event, Reverend Stephen Wilfred Arthur, Acting Director General of the GCAA, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to maintaining high standards in safety, security, and operational efficiency.
He noted that key focus areas for the Authority include regulatory innovation, active stakeholder dialogue, and investment in training infrastructure.
“The strength of the aviation sector lies in the partnerships we build and the innovation we enhance…the challenges of cybersecurity, climate change and airline viability demand a unified and proactive approach by all of us,” Mr Arthur stated.
He commended the government’s ongoing support and encouraged all stakeholders to work together to position Ghana as the aviation hub of choice in the sub-region, pledging that the GCAA will continue to operate with “transparency, integrity and purpose.”
Presentations were also delivered by senior officials from the GCAA, including Mr. David Akuamoah Boateng, Director of Air Traffic Services; Madam Patience Bonsu, Acting Director of Economic Regulations and Business Development; and Mr. Franklin Gyamera, Director of Safety. Each outlined initiatives from their departments that align with the Authority’s broader goals.
