Kotoka to Accra Int. Airport: How Gov’t Can Successfully Change The Name of Ghana’s Main Airport | By Dominick Andoh
The announcement by the Majority Leader of Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, that government is set to rename the Kotoka International Airport (ACC) to Accra International Airport has sparked discussions and debates about the implications of such a change.
Airports can undergo name changes for various reasons, including political shifts, branding initiatives, and modernization efforts. This proposed change in Ghana requires adherence to comprehensive international standards set by organizations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
For an airport name change to be recognized internationally, the country must follow specific protocols established by ICAO. These include notifying ICAO’s International NOTAM Office to update aeronautical information and ensure that all flight operations and air traffic control systems are aware of the change.
ICAO also stipulates that any changes should be communicated via official channels such as aeronautical charts and other aviation databases.
ICAO’s designation for Accra is DGAA. This may change after the renaming.
IATA, on the other hand, is responsible for airport codes, which serve as identifiers for airlines and travel agents globally.
IATA’s designation for Accra, Ghana, is Acc. This is unlikely to change after the renaming.
Renaming an airport typically requires a new IATA code if the airport’s primary name changes substantially.
Stakeholders must formally request the change, providing evidence of local and national support alongside any economic implications.
The entire process can take months, considering the necessary validations and updates.
Several airports worldwide have experienced name changes that provide insight into this process. For instance, the former “Cairo International Airport” was rebranded to honour Egypt’s former President, Anwar Sadat, leading to heightened national pride and tourism incentives.
Another notable case is the renaming of “London’s Gatwick Airport” that once happened due to a bid for modernization and improved branding.
Moreover, the recent name change of “Düsseldorf International Airport” to just “Düsseldorf Airport” aligns with efforts to streamline operations and enhance branding through a simpler identity. These examples illustrate how name changes can potentially increase airport recognition and enhance tourism, ultimately benefiting the local economy.
The proposed renaming of Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport may present several potential benefits. Firstly, the name “Accra” immediately identifies the airport with Ghana’s bustling capital, enhancing brand visibility.
Adopting a more globally recognized name could improve the airport’s competitiveness within the West African region, where travellers often seek clear and recognizable landmarks.
Increasing the brand’s equity may also lead to enhanced funding and investment opportunities, especially in infrastructure development.
Kotoka to Accra Int. Airport: How Gov’t Can Successfully Change The Name of Ghana’s Main Airport | AviationGhana.com
