Ghana’s Vice President urges airport upgrades to boost Accra’s role as West African aviation hub
Ghana’s Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang,has called on the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) to strengthen operations and infrastructure at Kotoka International Airport in Accra. Speaking at the company’s 20th Anniversary Lecture and Awards Ceremony in Accra, she said efficient airport services are vital for Ghana’s ambitions in trade, tourism, industrialisation and investment. The Vice President highlighted the need for continuous investment in airport infrastructure, improved services and efficient management to position Ghana as a leading aviation hub in West Africa. There is no official statement or further detail from GACL or the government at this time.
The Vice President noted that international passenger traffic at Kotoka International Airport increased from 1.8 million in 2022 to 2.5 million in 2025. This growth puts pressure on existing facilities, especially Terminal 3. To address this, Terminal 2 is being refurbished to handle both domestic and international flights. Work is also underway to rehabilitate and expand the runway, including upgrades to lighting systems. These improvements may help ease congestion and support future growth, but there is no information on project timelines, funding or the impact on flight schedules. Agencies should monitor for updates from GACL on terminal operations, construction phases and passenger handling.
For the travel trade in sub-Saharan Africa, these developments may affect leisure, business, group and MICE travel to and through Accra. Improved airport infrastructure could support more direct flights, better connections and higher service standards for clients. However, there is no data on new routes, airline partnerships or changes to visa and entry procedures for African travellers. Agencies should check with suppliers for the latest information on flight schedules, terminal usage and passenger services during the refurbishment period.
The Vice President also commended GACL for diversifying revenue sources through commercial developments at the airport. This may include retail, hospitality and property projects that can enhance the airport experience and generate additional income. There is no background data on the scale of these developments or how they compare to similar projects in other West African airports such as Lagos or Abidjan. The trade should watch for announcements on new facilities, commercial partnerships and service offerings at Kotoka International Airport.
Open questions remain about Ghana’s regional aviation strategy, the timeline for infrastructure upgrades and the impact on trade business. There is no official data on Ghana’s share of West African air traffic, the number of airlines using Accra as a hub, or the outlook for future passenger growth. Agencies should continue to monitor for official updates and be ready to advise clients on airport changes, construction impacts and new service opportunities as more information becomes available.
Sources: No primary or background sources found; facts November 2026.
