Government’s newly introduced Airport Infrastructure Development Levy is set to generate significant funding for aviation upgrades, even as it faces criticism from Minority members of Parliament.
Effective April 1, 2026, the policy imposes an additional GH¢100 charge on domestic flights, while international travelers are required to pay between $50 and $100. The revenue is earmarked for key infrastructure projects, including improvements at Kotoka International Airport and upgrades across regional airports.
Planned developments include a new connecting concourse between Terminals 2 and 3, a 2,000-capacity car park at Terminal 3, and rehabilitation works aimed at enhancing airport operations nationwide. Authorities estimate the levy will raise approximately $800 million over the next decade to support these initiatives.
However, the policy has drawn opposition from the Minority on Parliament’s Roads and Highways Committee. Ranking Member Kennedy Osei Nyarko argues that passengers are already paying for airport services through existing fees, making the new charge redundant.
He also expressed concern that the additional GH¢100 cost on domestic travel is too steep and could deter passenger traffic. Critics warn that increased airfare—already being passed on by airlines—may affect Ghana’s competitiveness in the regional aviation market and potentially discourage tourism.
Despite the pushback, the levy underscores government’s focus on expanding and modernizing aviation infrastructure, raising a broader debate about balancing development financing with affordability for travelers.
