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

Ghana's Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Director General, Rev Stephen Wilfred Arthur, has indicated that at least two new airlines could enter the domestic aviation market by 2027. This development hinges on the airlines successfully completing the five-phase certification process administered by the GCAA. Speaking on PM EXPRESS BUSINESS Edition, Arthur expressed optimism that the new entrants could help reduce fares and provide more options for consumers.

Despite encouraging more airlines, Arthur emphasized the GCAA's commitment to maintaining safety standards. The current aviation market in Ghana consists of only two airlines, a number that has dwindled from the five carriers operating during a more vibrant era. Arthur also shed light on other factors that contributed to the collapse of some airlines, which were not primarily due to regulatory pressures or taxes. These include lack of capital, internal conflicts, governance issues, and the rising cost of aviation fuel.

Regarding high domestic airfares, Arthur clarified that the regulator cannot dictate ticket pricing. Instead, he believes that effective regulation, competition, and market forces could help bring down prices. Arthur also revealed that the government has recently removed duties and taxes on spare parts for domestic airlines, among several measures aimed at reducing operational costs for these carriers.

Furthermore, the GCAA is striving to create a more conducive environment to attract additional players, citing the importance of developing complementary infrastructures to support the burgeoning aviation industry.