Mahama cuts sod for new Accra Airport concourse to ease rising congestion

Construction has officially begun on a new concourse linking Terminals 2 and 3 at the Kotoka International Airport, as rising passenger numbers continue to place pressure on facilities at Ghana’s main aviation hub.

Passenger traffic has increased from 1.8 million in 2022 to 2.5 million in 2025, representing a growth of about 39 percent within three years.

President John Dramani Mahama performed the sod-cutting ceremony in Accra on Monday, April 27, 2026, explaining that the project is aimed at easing congestion and improving passenger movement across the airport.

He noted that pressure on services is already visible during peak hours, particularly between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., affecting key airport operations.

“We are already seeing congestion during peak hours, particularly between the hours of 1800 and 2200 GMT,” he said. “This is affecting check-in, immigration, security screening, boarding and baggage handling. If these are not addressed, these pressures will undermine efficiency and erode the passenger experience.”

The new concourse will physically connect Terminals 2 and 3 and feature five passenger boarding air bridges, expanded waiting areas, VIP lounges, and retail and commercial spaces designed to improve passenger comfort.

As part of a wider redevelopment plan, Terminal 2 is also being upgraded to handle both domestic and international flights, with government planning to relocate some airlines from Terminal 3 to reduce congestion.

President Mahama acknowledged resistance from some airlines but expressed confidence that improved facilities would encourage relocation.

“I hear some airlines are reluctant to move to Terminal 2,” he said. “But what I am going to see at Terminal 2 today, I am sure when we finish, they will be ready to move.”

The project forms part of a broader aviation modernisation agenda that includes a seven-storey car park at Terminal 3 with capacity for about 2,000 vehicles. The facility will also include retail shops, restaurants, a viewing lounge, conference spaces and an airport hotel.

On security, the President announced plans to install advanced 3D scanning systems at Terminals 2 and 3 to improve screening efficiency and passenger convenience.

“It will make aviation security safer, and it will remove the need for passengers to take out their laptops and tablets during screening,” he said.

Beyond Accra, government is also pushing ahead with regional airport developments in Bolgatanga, Wa and Nsuatre, while work continues on extending the runway at Kumasi Airport to accommodate larger aircraft.

He further disclosed that a new 54-metre air traffic control tower is nearing completion to strengthen airspace management.

On the proposed national airline, he said a task force is expected to present its roadmap within the week, adding that the initiative would create jobs and position Ghana as a stronger aviation hub in West Africa.

He also announced plans for an electronic visa system that will allow travellers to apply online without visiting embassies.

In addition, the President revealed that a private individual is funding the refurbishment of the airport’s VVIP lounge at a cost of nearly $2 million, at no cost to the state.

“When the work is completed, we will grant the individual lifetime access to the lounge,” he said.

The new concourse is expected to significantly reduce congestion and improve operational efficiency as passenger demand continues to rise.