Spanish and Italian airlines seeking direct flight routes to Accra, Deputy Minister for Transport reveals
Deputy Minister for Transport, Alhassan Tampuli, has disclosed that multiple Spanish and Italian airlines have submitted applications to introduce direct flight routes to Accra, Ghana by the summer of 2024.
The Deputy Minister made the disclosure during an interview on the sidelines of the special event commemorating the 90th anniversary of Air France’s global operations.
Mr Tampuli asserted that the Government is currently engaged in a meticulous review of these applications and is poised to make a well-considered decision regarding the next course of action. As of now, the names of the airlines in question remain confidential, a measure attributed to the ongoing evaluation process.
The surging interest in Ghana as a destination for international airlines can be traced to several compelling factors, as articulated by the Deputy Minister. Chief among these is the burgeoning demand for travel to Accra from a diverse array of global locations.
Notably, Ghana has garnered substantial international attention due to initiatives like the “Year of Return Programme,” which has successfully attracted visitors and investors to its shores. This program, launched in 2019, sought to encourage individuals of African descent, particularly those in the diaspora, to explore their roots in Ghana. Consequently, Ghana has emerged as an alluring prospect for airlines looking to expand their services.
Investor interest in the nation has also witnessed a noteworthy uptick, with a growing number of enterprises eyeing business opportunities in Ghana. The Deputy Minister underscored the increased frequency of flights by various airlines, attributing it to a favorable environment fostered by government policies.
For instance, Ethiopian Airlines is set to increase its weekly flights to Accra to an impressive ten, underscoring its commitment to this burgeoning market. Meanwhile, British Airways is also poised to introduce new scheduled flights, adding to its existing Accra-Gatwick route, besides the Accra-Heathrow connection.
In a clear testament to the government’s dedication, Mr. Tampuli, the Deputy Minister of Transport, affirmed a commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure within the nation. This strategic objective aims to elevate Accra as the regional hub for airline operations, further enhancing Ghana’s appeal as a pivotal destination for both domestic and international travelers.
