We'll invest in innovation, technology to enhance safety, security of Ghana's airspace – GCAA 

Reverend Stephen Arthur, the Acting Director-General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), has affirmed the Authority’s commitment to investing in innovation and technology to enhance air traffic management in the country.

The move, he said, would also ensure that Ghana kept up with the global aviation standards and ensured a safer and more secured airspace.

Already the construction of an ultra-modern air traffic control (ATC) tower building, equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance air traffic management, was on course and would be ready by the end of 2026, he said.

“This new ongoing tower, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will match any modern ATC tower wherever it is in the world,” Rev Arthur said on Friday at the 39^th Anniversary and Award ceremony of the GCAA, in Accra.

“This development underscores our commitment to embracing innovation and ensuring the highest standards of air traffic management.”

The anniversary was on the theme: “39 Years of Ensuring Safety and Security in Ghana.”

The GCAA was established in 1930 as a unit within the Public Works Department and attained departmental status in 1953.

However, on May 16, 1986, the GCAA was established under PNDC Law 151, as an autonomous entity.

The legislation entrusted the Authority with the responsibilities of advising the Government on aviation matters, establishing aerodromes or airports, managing airport functions, overseeing air traffic management, and regulating the air transport services in Ghana.

Rev Arthur said over the past 39 years, the GCAA had discharged that mandate with diligence, earning both local and international commendations.

Within the period the Authority had established robust structures and maintained community safety and security, he said, adding that its dedicated compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommended practices had yielded significant results.

“Our unwavering commitment to safety and excellence has propelled Ghana’s Aviation sector to very remarkable heights,” Rev Arthur touted.

“It is no secret that aviation operations in Ghana have definitely flourished over the years, becoming an important catalyst for economic transformation in the country.”

Despite these achievements, the Director General stressed the need for continued collaboration, unity and teamwork among the staff to ensure that Ghana maintained its status as one of the safest air spaces within the sub-region.

“Unity is strength, and where there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved,” he said. “I want to make this humble plea that let us continue to foster a culture of togetherness, where every member of our organisation feels valued and empowered to contribute their very best.”

He charged the staff to support the Government’s agenda of making the country an aviation hub in the sub-region.

“We cannot, as an Authority, distance ourselves from the vision of His Excellency the President. It is a vision to create Ghana as an aviation hub in our sub-region,” he emphasised.

Rev. Arthur assured the workers of his commitment to addressing their working conditions and providing opportunities for all, promising that; “No staff will be left behind.”

Mr John Mmeb Kunyan Wumborti, Acting Commissioner, Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB), described the anniversary as “decades of dedication, resilience, and progress” in the country's aviation sector.

He commended the GCAA for its collaboration and commitment to air safety.

“On this occasion, let us recommit to the highest standards of safety, learning from the past, and preparing diligently for the future,” he said.

Mrs Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, the Managing Director, Ghana Airport Company Limited, called for strengthening the bond between the two companies to promote aviation sector growth.

GNA