National carrier for Ghana?

Ghana's efforts to launch a national airline have encountered significant challenges, delaying the start of operations initially planned for this year. Since 2017, attempts to establish the national carrier, Ghana Airlines, have faced numerous obstacles despite significant progress, including the formation of a joint venture, acquisition of office space, establishment of a board of directors, and appointment of an accountable manager.

According to information from the Ministry of Transport, ongoing activities include the recruitment and training of essential office staff, the creation of a corporate logo and branding, and the development of both management and non-technical operating manuals.

An investigation has revealed that the chosen strategic partner, Ashanti Airlines Limited (AAL), lacks aircraft, a license, and the financial capacity necessary for the venture. Incorporated on December 13, 2017, AAL won the bid over established aviation giants Ethiopian Airlines and EgyptAir, as well as JNH Group, despite not yet obtaining an Air Carrier Licence (ACL) or Air Operator's Certificate (AOC).

Over the past seven years, the government has mentioned the plan to establish a home-based carrier in five budget statements. The most recent update in 2023 confirmed the airline's name as Ghana Airlines and reiterated the strategic partnership with Ashanti Airlines. Despite promises that operations would commence by mid-last year, the airline has yet to launch, with less than six months remaining in the current administration's term.

AAL needs an aircraft to complete the five-step regulatory process and acquire the AOC from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to begin operations. However, the company has struggled to secure an aircraft, attributed to a post-COVID-19 boom in the aviation industry making aircraft scarce for startup firms, as noted by the Ministry of Transport.