Ghana’s First MRO Facility at KIA Ready for Takeoff | By Dominick Andoh | Ghana is set to make a significant leap in its aviation capabilities as the country’s first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility prepares to begin full commercial operations in August 2025.
A recent visit by AviationGhana to 3AMS-CELMS Limited’s state-of-the-art hangar located on the airside of Kotoka International Airport (KIA) revealed remarkable progress.
The main structural works are complete, flooring has been laid, and administrative offices within the hangar are fully fitted. What remains is the final installation of procured specialised tools and a scheduled demonstration to inspectors from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) as part of the final certification stage.
This marks a major milestone in a journey that began over five years ago when 3AMS-CELMS initiated its certification process. In 2022, the GCAA granted the company permission to enter stage four of the five-stage process, a clear sign of regulatory confidence in the project’s potential.
Speaking to AviationGhana, the management of 3AMS-CELMS confirmed that all key personnel, including certified engineers, are already on board. These professionals are trained and equipped to service narrow-body aircraft, including Embraer Regional Jets (ERJs), Bombardier Q400s, and similar models, positioning Ghana as a critical player in the aviation maintenance ecosystem for both commercial and private jet operators across West Africa.
“Our facility is ready. All construction is done, and our offices are fully equipped. We are now focused on fitting the necessary tools and preparing for the final inspection and demonstration to the GCAA,” Mr. Clifford Martey Korley, Managing Director of 3AMS-CELMS said.
Once operational, the MRO is expected to provide much-needed relief to domestic airlines like Africa World Airlines (AWA) and PassionAir, which rely on foreign MROs for regular maintenance, and major repairs, often incurring high costs and extended aircraft downtimes.
The significance of this development extends beyond Ghana’s borders. Despite a growing number of operators in the West African region, with more than 32 registered airlines, there is a glaring lack of MRO facilities capable of handling narrow-body aircraft. Most operators are forced to fly to Ethiopia, Egypt, or South Africa for major maintenance.
3AMS-CELMS’ readiness not only enhances Ghana’s aviation independence but also strengthens its bid to become an aviation hub in the sub-region, contributing to national revenue generation and reinforcing efforts to regain FAA Category-1 status.
“This project is not just about maintenance, it’s about repositioning Ghana as a trusted aviation hub for West Africa,” said Mr. Martey Korley added.
Ghana’s First MRO Facility at KIA Ready for Takeoff | AviationGhana | Send all enquiries and press releases to AviationGhana.info@gmail.com
