Ghana is targeting 2027 for the revival of its defunct national carrier, Ghana Airways, with a direct route to Canada expected to be the airline’s first priority, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced.
The proposed comeback forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s plans to restore the country’s presence in international aviation, with preparations for the airline’s return reportedly nearing completion.
Mr Ablakwa said a technical committee established by the President had submitted its report, while discussions had also been held with aircraft manufacturer Boeing as part of efforts to advance the relaunch.
“President Mahama is passionate that the pride of Ghana, the wings of Ghana which flew in the skies and made all of us proud until the early 2000s; President Mahama has put together a technical committee. They have submitted their report,” he said.
“Last month, he had a good meeting with the management of Boeing and I can confirm to you that President Mahama’s target that next year, 2027, we should have Ghana Airways back in the skies,” he added.
Ghana–Canada Route to Take Priority
According to the Foreign Affairs Minister, the government has identified routes to be reserved for the revived national carrier, with direct flights between Ghana and Canada expected to lead its international operations.
Mr Ablakwa said the President had asked him to communicate the importance attached to the Canada route, which he described as the country’s first direct-flight priority under the plan.
A successful launch could create a new direct air link between the two countries, although details of the proposed route, including its launch date, frequency and commercial arrangements, have yet to be outlined in the announcement.
Commercial Details Awaited
While the government has set 2027 as its target for the airline’s return, key commercial details remain outstanding.
These include the proposed ownership and operating structure, aircraft acquisition or leasing arrangements, financing, route economics and the management model that would guide the airline’s operations.
The announcement did not provide details on the projected cost of the relaunch, the number or type of aircraft expected to be deployed, or how the new carrier would be positioned to compete in the international aviation market.
The revival of Ghana Airways would mark a significant step in the government’s ambition to restore a national airline. Its long-term prospects, however, will depend on the final business plan, funding arrangements and the ability to operate commercially sustainable routes.
For now, the government is targeting 2027 for the return of the airline, with the Ghana–Canada connection expected to be at the centre of its initial route strategy.
