The Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has hinted at plans by the government to convert the Ho Airport into an Aviation Training Centre.
Although no specific timelines have been given, Mr. Asiamah said the centre would serve not only Ghana but also West Africa.
The Minister made the disclosure on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen on Wednesday.
He explained that the decision was prompted by the halt in commercial operations.
“We engaged Africa World Airline (AWA) on why they suspended flights on the route, and they cited low passenger numbers. So, the plan is to engage the private sector and turn it into an Aviation Training Centre for West Africa. We have partners in America, and we have begun discussions on the way forward,” he said.
The construction of the airport began in September 2015 and was completed in September 2018.
There have been concerns that the airport may deteriorate due to the lack of commercial activities. However, Mr. Asiamah allayed these fears, stating that the Civil Aviation Authority is still maintaining the equipment at the airport. He added that the training centre will be a major boost for economic activity.
“We have many of our people [Ghanaians] already training individuals across Africa. So, the centre will go a long way in boosting the economy,” he stated.
On future decisions regarding the resumption of airline operations, the Minister noted that it would purely be the decision of the private sector.
The facility consists of a runway 1,900 metres long and 30 metres wide, an aircraft parking area, a terminal building that can accommodate at least 150,000 passengers a year, VIP and VVIP facilities, a parking area for staff, and a nine-kilometre network of roads around the airport.
It also features an air traffic control tower, a water reservoir, a fire station, and a standby generator, among other facilities.
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