The Board chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), James Agalga, has defended the introduction of new airport levies, arguing that Ghana cannot build a competitive aviation hub using outdated pricing structures.
Mr Agalga stressed that aviation infrastructure development requires significant investment, which must be supported by realistic and modern revenue streams.
“We cannot build an aviation hub on 2010 rates,” he stated.
According to him, the aviation sector has evolved significantly over the past decade, with rising operational costs, infrastructure demands, and global competition.
Maintaining old fee structures, he noted, would limit Ghana’s ability to upgrade its airports and position itself as a key aviation hub in West Africa.
The new levies, which have sparked public debate, are expected to contribute to ongoing and future airport development projects, including improvements in passenger experience, safety systems, and terminal expansion.
Agalga argued that such investments are critical if Ghana is to attract more international airlines and increase transit traffic through its airports.
However, the move has not been without criticism. Some stakeholders in the travel and tourism sector have raised concerns about the potential impact of increased ticket prices and reduced passenger numbers.
Critics fear that higher levies could make Ghana a less attractive destination compared to competing hubs in the region.
In response, Agalga maintained that the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term concerns.
He explained that a well-developed aviation infrastructure would ultimately boost tourism, trade, and economic growth, offsetting any immediate cost implications.
