At least 2 new airlines could join domestic aviation market by 2027 – GCAA Director General

Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), has indicated that at least two new airlines could potentially enter Ghana's domestic aviation market by 2027. This possibility hinges on the airlines successfully navigating the current certification process carried out by the GCAA. Arthur made this statement during an appearance on PM EXPRESS BUSINESS Edition, discussing the outlook for the Ghanaian aviation industry on September 24, 2026.

Arthur expressed optimism regarding the potential entry of these new airlines, stating that their presence could help reduce fares and increase options for consumers within Ghana. He emphasized that while the GCAA aims to stimulate competition in the aviation sector, safety remains their top priority. Currently, only two airlines operate domestically, a significant decrease from the time when there were about five carriers.

Arthur also touched upon other factors that led to the decline of some airlines, such as insufficient capital, internal conflicts, and concerns related to corporate governance and aviation fuel costs, rather than regulatory challenges. Regarding high domestic airfares, Arthur clarified that the regulator cannot dictate ticket pricing. Instead, they believe that effective regulation, competition, and market forces will ultimately contribute to lowering prices.

The government has recently removed duties and taxes on spare parts for domestic airlines, among other measures to ease the cost of doing business for these carriers. The GCAA is actively working to improve the overall environment to attract more players, recognizing that infrastructure alone is insufficient without a thriving economy around aviation facilities. Arthur concluded by highlighting the importance of supporting the aviation infrastructure development that the government is pursuing throughout the country.