GHANA is taking a renewed step toward reviving its national airline, with the government confirming it has entered into early talks with a US-based aviation company to support the effort.
In a statement issued early April, Ghana’s Ministry of Transport announced it had held a strategic meeting with the World Aviation Group (WAG), a US aviation firm, to assess the viability of establishing a new national carrier.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe said WAG presented a comprehensive proposal involving a modern fleet, enhanced route networks, and global best practices in customer service and safety.
‘They outlined a commitment to deploying best practices, conducting feasibility studies, and partnering strategically with international airlines,’ Nikpe said.
Regional connectivity at the heart of the plan
WAG’s proposal centres on a hub-and-spoke model anchored at Kotoka International Airport, designed to connect Ghana domestically and regionally, especially within under-served West African markets.
The transport ministry noted that the plan includes strategic alliances with global carriers, a comprehensive business model with long-term financial projections, and a strong emphasis on operational sustainability.
Nikpe added that ‘a strong national carrier is critical to Ghana’s economic transformation, tourism growth, and regional integration,’ emphasising the government’s intent to find a partner capable of delivering a model that serves both commercial and public interests.
A fresh bid after failed attempts
Ghana’s efforts to revive its national airline have a troubled past. In 2024, a joint venture with Ashanti Airlines under the GhanaAirlines brand collapsed after delays in certification.
Earlier attempts, including Memorandums of Understanding with Ethiopian Airlines (2018) and EgyptAir (2020), also failed to produce results due to strategic disagreements.
The country has lacked a functioning national airline since Ghana International Airlines ceased operations in 2010—six years after the collapse of Ghana Airways in 2004.
Last month, President John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed plans to establish a new national airline during a meeting to receive the credentials of the United Arab Emirates ambassador to Ghana. This followed an earlier commitment he made in December 2024, where he pledged to revive the national carrier in collaboration with ‘competent and financially sound’ partners.
The government says the airline project is not just about national pride but about reducing ticket prices, stimulating economic growth, and strengthening regional integration.
Next steps: technical assessments and due diligence
If both parties agree on terms, the government is expected to conduct a full technical assessment of WAG’s capabilities and plans. A formal agreement could pave the way for the establishment of the new carrier as early as 2026.
With Ghana’s aviation sector positioned for expansion and regional demand for connectivity growing, this latest initiative could finally deliver the national airline the country has long awaited.
