President John Dramani Mahama has launched a major expansion project at Accra International Airport aimed at easing congestion, improving passenger experience and strengthening Ghana’s ambition of becoming a leading aviation hub in West Africa.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony on Monday, President Mahama described the project as a strategic investment in Ghana’s future rather than a symbolic event.
“Today’s event is not merely ceremonial, it is strategic,” he said, stressing the need for Ghana’s aviation infrastructure to expand rapidly to support economic growth and remain competitive in the region.
The project will see the construction of a connecting concourse between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 to improve passenger movement and airport operations as traffic continues to grow.
According to the President, passenger numbers at the airport have increased significantly from 1.8 million in 2022 to 2.5 million in 2025, putting pressure on existing facilities, especially during peak evening hours between 6pm and 10pm GMT.
He noted that congestion is already affecting critical areas such as check-in, immigration, security screening, boarding and baggage handling.
“If these are not addressed, these pressures will undermine efficiency and erode the pleasant passenger experience,” he stated.
As part of the government’s immediate plans, Terminal 2 will be upgraded into a dual-purpose facility capable of handling both domestic and international flights. Some airlines are also expected to be relocated there to reduce pressure on Terminal 3.
President Mahama acknowledged that some airlines are hesitant about moving operations to Terminal 2 but expressed confidence that the upgraded facility would change their minds.
“I hear some airlines are reluctant to move to Terminal 2, but what I have gone to see at Terminal 2 today, I am sure when we finish, they will be begging us to move to Terminal 2,” he said.
Beyond the terminal upgrades, the President explained that the lack of seamless connectivity between the terminals remains one of the airport’s biggest operational challenges. The new concourse is expected to address that gap by creating smoother airside connections for passengers and airlines.
When completed, the facility will feature five passenger boarding bridges, modern waiting and holding areas, premium and VIP lounges, retail outlets and enhanced passenger service infrastructure.
The project is also expected to improve aircraft turnaround times and boost overall operational efficiency.
President Mahama further revealed plans for a seven-storey multi-storey car park with a capacity of 2,000 vehicles at Terminal 3. The proposed development will include retail and dining spaces, conference facilities, business centres and a dual-concept airport hotel featuring both budget and luxury accommodation.
He said the initiative forms part of efforts to increase non-aeronautical revenue while supporting the government’s 24-hour economy policy through job creation and expanded commercial activity.
The President added that the aviation expansion agenda extends beyond Accra. He disclosed that procurement processes are underway for new regional airports in Bolgatanga, Wa and Nsuatre to improve domestic connectivity, while the Kumasi Airport runway will also be extended to accommodate wide-bodied aircraft.
A new 54-metre air traffic control tower equipped with modern technology is also planned for Kumasi.
Mahama further announced the installation of new 3D scanners at Terminals 2 and 3 to enhance security while speeding up passenger screening procedures.
Under the new system, passengers will no longer need to remove laptops, tablets, shoes or belts during security checks.
Highlighting growing competition within the West African aviation sector, the President said Ghana must invest strategically and execute projects efficiently if it wants to maintain its position as a preferred aviation destination.
“Every cedi invested must translate into tangible benefits for the Ghanaian people,” he stressed.
In another major announcement, President Mahama revealed that he will meet a taskforce this week working on plans to re-establish a national airline. He expressed optimism that Ghana would soon have a concrete roadmap toward restoring a flag carrier to operate across Africa and beyond.
He also disclosed plans to introduce a new e-visa system that will allow travellers to apply online without visiting a Ghanaian embassy.
Closing his remarks, the President said the new concourse project represents a significant step toward transforming Ghana’s aviation sector.
“Today’s sod cutting marks the beginning of a project that will shape the future of aviation in Ghana,” he said. “Ghana is ready to lead, ready to compete and ready to build world-class infrastructure that matches our ambitions.”
