Aviation Authority accelerates KIA projects to position Ghana as Africa’s air hub
By: Ernest Afram
The Acting Director-General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to completing key infrastructure projects at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) as part of efforts to position Ghana as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
Speaking at a stakeholder breakfast meeting in Accra on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Rev. Arthur noted that several initiatives are underway to enhance KIA’s status as a business destination and a preferred stopover for major international carriers.
He highlighted ongoing work on a modern air traffic control tower as one of the major upgrades that will significantly boost radar surveillance, communication, and safety protocols.
“The construction of the modern air traffic control tower center will transform our airspace management systems. All these projects are very much on course,” he said.
Rev. Arthur disclosed that the infrastructure components of the project are already complete, with overall progress exceeding 80 percent. He added that the GCAA is working in close collaboration with the government and international partners to ensure the timely completion of the project by the end of 2026.
As part of broader reforms, the GCAA is also upgrading its data management systems to improve security and operational coordination at the airport.
“We are introducing the Advanced Passenger Information System and the Passenger Name Record system, which are long overdue in Ghana,” Rev. Arthur disclosed.
The new systems, he explained, will provide real-time access to passenger data for state security agencies. This will enable authorities to identify and monitor individuals entering Ghana’s airspace even before they land, aligning the country’s aviation security with global standards.
“These are vital tools for securing our air borders and preventing transnational crimes,” Rev. Arthur noted.
The stakeholders’ breakfast meeting brought together key players in the aviation sector, including representatives from Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Air Force, PassionAir, and Africa World Airlines.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, who also addressed the gathering, reiterated the government’s commitment to improving aviation infrastructure across the country. He said the runways at Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi and Tamale Airport will soon undergo major upgrades.
“Our vision for the aviation sector goes beyond Accra. We are determined to ensure that regional airports also meet international standards,” the minister assured.
