The Government of Ghana has committed to completing the runway extension project at the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi by the end of 2025, according to the Minister for Transport, Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ breakfast meeting organized by the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Minister emphasized that the project is a top infrastructure priority for the government. The extended runway will enable international and medium-body aircraft to land safely and directly in the Ashanti regional capital.
The current runway is 1,881 meters long, which limits its ability to accommodate certain aircraft types. The new project will extend the runway to 2,320 meters, allowing the airport to meet international safety and operational standards.
“The runway is a little short for some of the medium-body aircraft. Extending it will allow us to welcome more direct international flights,” the Minister explained.
Mr. Nikpe expressed optimism that this development would enhance Ghana’s aviation capacity and position Kumasi as a strategic air travel hub in the West African sub-region.
The runway extension is part of a broader aviation expansion strategy being pursued by the GCAA in collaboration with government and international stakeholders.
Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, the Acting Director-General of GCAA, also addressed participants at the meeting. He revealed that the airport infrastructure improvement projects in Kumasi and Accra are aligned with Ghana’s goal of becoming a regional aviation hub.
“The completion of this runway will mark a new era for air travel in Kumasi,” Rev. Arthur noted. “It aligns with our strategic intent to attract more international airlines and boost regional connectivity.”
Rev. Arthur also provided updates on ongoing projects at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra. He mentioned:
The construction of a modern air traffic control tower, now over 80% complete.
Upgrading of Ghana’s Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) database to enhance airport security and coordination.
Infrastructure improvements designed to streamline flight operations and attract business to Ghana’s airspace.
These initiatives aim to integrate Ghana more deeply into the global aviation security architecture, with real-time data accessible by immigration and national security services.
A fully functional international airport in Kumasi is expected to:
Boost tourism and investment in the Ashanti Region.
Create job opportunities through expanded airport operations and services.
Provide a convenient alternative to Accra for international travel, reducing pressure on KIA.
Business and tourism operators have long advocated for Kumasi to host direct international flights, especially given its strategic location and economic importance.
Minister Nikpe reassured stakeholders that funding and political will are in place to complete the Kumasi runway project on schedule.
“We are very hopeful that by the end of this year, the runway would have been completed and put to use,” he reiterated.
The assurance follows delays and multiple calls by the public and industry players for faster execution of airport infrastructure projects across the country.
With the runway extension now on track for completion, the Prempeh I International Airport is poised to play a transformational role in Ghana’s air travel sector. It not only symbolizes progress in aviation infrastructure but also reflects the country’s ambition to make air travel more accessible, decentralized, and efficient.