Domestic Airlines Petition Prez Mahama for Incentives to Boost Operations and Expansion | By Dominick Andoh | Ghana’s domestic airlines have petitioned President John Dramani Mahama for targeted incentives to support the growth and sustainability of the local air travel industry.
The President disclosed this during the official opening of the maiden Transport and Logistics Fair in Accra, noting that domestic operators, including Africa World Airlines (AWA) and PassionAir, had formally appealed to government for policy support to strengthen their services and expand operations across the country.
“The aviation sector is operating quite well, even though I know they have some challenges. I have received several petitions from Togbe Afede XIV on behalf of AWA, and also from PassionAir, about some incentives we can give them to improve their service,” President Mahama stated.
Ghana’s domestic aviation market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven largely by increased passenger demand, expansion of regional airports, and rising business and tourism travel.
However, local carriers continue to face steep operational costs, fluctuating aviation fuel prices, and limited access to credit facilities, challenges that have stifled competitiveness and long-term planning.
AWA and PassionAir currently dominate Ghana’s domestic airspace, connecting key cities such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Wa, Takoradi, and Sunyani.
Despite these achievements, local airlines operate on thin margins due to high taxation on spare parts, import duties on aircraft, and limited government-backed infrastructure incentives.
President Mahama commended the resilience of the airlines, noting that their continued operation has enhanced mobility and regional connectivity within Ghana.
“Airports that are operational include Wa Airport, Sunyani Airport, Tamale Airport, Kumasi, and Accra Airport, of course, for domestic travel. People are taking advantage of it and being able to move swiftly by the domestic airlines,” he said.
The reopening and upgrade of key regional airports have significantly improved access to Ghana’s northern and western corridors, boosting tourism and trade. However, stakeholders continue to call for a comprehensive domestic aviation policy to support private operators through tax reliefs, maintenance incentives, and route development programs.
Domestic Airlines Petition Prez Mahama for Incentives to Boost Operations and Expansion | AviationGhana.info@gmail.com
