Several Spanish and Italian airlines have expressed their interest in launching direct flights to Accra, with plans to initiate operations by the summer of 2024.
This exciting development was disclosed by the Deputy Minister of Transport during an interview with JoyBusiness, following a program held in Accra to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Air France’s global operations.
While the names of these airlines are yet to be revealed, the Deputy Minister of Transport affirmed that the government is actively reviewing their applications and will soon decide on the next steps.
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The surge in interest from international carriers can be attributed to several factors. Notably, the increasing number of passengers seeking flights to Accra from diverse destinations worldwide has contributed to the appeal of Ghana as a destination.
The Year of Return Programme and the growing investor interest in the country have further enhanced its attractiveness.
Additionally, the minister pointed out that many airlines are expanding their schedules and frequencies, a trend believed to be influenced by favorable government policies.
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One noteworthy example is Ethiopian Airlines, which is set to increase its weekly flights to 10, while British Airways is planning to introduce new scheduled flights on the Accra-Gatwick route, in addition to the existing Accra-Heathrow service.
Furthermore, the Deputy Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure, with the aim of making Accra a central hub for regional airline operations.
Regarding Ghana’s proposed National Carrier, the Deputy Minister revealed that significant progress has been made.
The government has reached an agreement with a private group, signed a shareholding agreement, and incorporated a new company for the national carrier.
However, the timeline for its launch remains uncertain, as thorough due diligence and aircraft inspections are still pending.
This news heralds a promising era for Accra’s aviation sector, as it inches closer to becoming a focal point for international travel.
