The Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), James Agalga, has defended the recently introduced airport passenger service charges, describing the previous pricing structure as outdated and unsustainable.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on April 7, 2026, Mr Agalga said the old fee regime had remained largely unchanged for nearly 14 years, limiting the company’s ability to generate adequate revenue.

Why Airport Charges Were Increased

According to GACL, the revision of passenger service charges was necessary to support operational sustainability and future aviation development.

Mr Agalga explained that maintaining outdated fees had placed financial strain on the state-owned company, which is expected to operate as a profit-making entity.

He described the previous structure as a “resource drain” that risked undermining Ghana’s long-term aviation ambitions.

New Airport Charges Breakdown

Under the revised pricing structure:

Domestic Travel

  • Additional GH¢100 per one-way ticket

Regional Flights

  • Increase of up to $30

International Travel

  • $50 surcharge (one-way)

  • $100 surcharge (return tickets)

The new charges are expected to impact both leisure and business travellers using Ghana’s airports.

Economic and Aviation Impact

GACL says the adjustment aligns Ghana with global aviation standards, where passenger service charges are periodically reviewed to reflect operational costs and infrastructure investment needs.

Analysts note that airport revenues are critical for:

  • Maintenance and expansion of airport infrastructure

  • Safety and security systems

  • Service quality improvements

  • Attracting international airline partnerships

Public Reaction and Concerns

The increase has generated mixed reactions among travellers and industry observers.

Some passengers have raised concerns about rising travel costs, especially for frequent flyers and businesses.

However, aviation experts argue that sustainable pricing is necessary to ensure long-term sector growth and competitiveness.

Bigger Picture: Ghana’s Aviation Expansion Plans

Ghana has positioned itself as a regional aviation hub in West Africa, with continued investments in airport infrastructure and international connectivity.

Officials say maintaining modern, efficient airport services requires consistent revenue streams — making periodic pricing reviews inevitable.

What Happens Next

GACL is expected to monitor the impact of the new charges on passenger traffic and airline operations.

Industry observers will also be watching closely to see whether the increase affects Ghana’s competitiveness as a regional transit hub.