Enhanced Operational Efficiency at Key Domestic Airports in Ghana: A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Regional Connectivity
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) have unveiled a strategic initiative to enhance operational efficiency and capacity at two pivotal domestic airports in Ghana: Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi, the Ashanti Region’s capital, and Tamale International Airport in the Northern Regional capital. Effective June 1, 2025, both airports will undergo a significant operational shift, extending their operating hours into the late evening. This move is strategically designed to accommodate the burgeoning demand for domestic air travel, optimize airline scheduling flexibility, and stimulate economic growth in the respective regions.
Under the revised schedule, Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi will extend its operational hours to 11:00 p.m., providing an additional window for flight operations. Similarly, Tamale International Airport will remain open until 10:00 p.m., facilitating increased flight frequencies and improved connectivity to and from the Northern Region. This strategic extension of operational hours is expected to create a more dynamic and responsive air travel network, catering to the evolving needs of passengers and businesses.
This initiative undertaken by the GCAA and GACL is not an isolated effort but rather a crucial component of a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening domestic air connectivity and bolstering economic activity in the Ashanti and Northern regions. Improved air travel infrastructure and increased flight options are expected to facilitate trade, tourism, and overall economic development in these regions, contributing to Ghana’s national economic growth agenda. The extended operational hours will provide businesses with enhanced flexibility in transporting goods and services, while also enabling tourists to explore these regions more conveniently, thereby promoting tourism and related economic activities.
To ensure seamless implementation of the new operating schedule, the GCAA has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), a critical communication tool in aviation, formally informing airlines and relevant stakeholders about the changes. Domestic carriers are being encouraged to capitalize on the extended operational window by increasing their flight frequencies, adding new routes, and adjusting existing schedules to accommodate the expanded operational timeframe. This collaborative approach between the regulatory body and the airline operators is essential for maximizing the benefits of the extended hours and optimizing the utilization of airport resources.
The extended operating hours at Prempeh I International Airport and Tamale International Airport are projected to yield numerous benefits for various stakeholders. Passengers will gain access to more convenient travel options, reducing travel time and enhancing flexibility in planning their itineraries. Airlines will benefit from increased operational efficiency and the potential to expand their market reach, while businesses will experience improved logistics and supply chain management, leading to greater efficiency and competitiveness. Moreover, the overall economic landscape of the Ashanti and Northern regions is poised to benefit from the enhanced connectivity and increased economic activities.
The GCAA and GACL have urged all stakeholders, including passengers, airlines, airport staff, and ground handling companies, to take note of the revised operational hours and adjust their plans accordingly. This proactive communication strategy is essential to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any potential disruptions. The authorities are confident that this strategic initiative will significantly contribute to the growth of the domestic aviation sector, stimulate economic activity, and improve the overall travel experience for passengers. This move underscores Ghana’s commitment to modernizing its aviation infrastructure and enhancing its competitiveness in the regional aviation market.
