By Boakye Stephen, Kumasi, Ghana | Reporting for Ghanaian News, Canada
01/04/2026
Air travel costs in Ghana are set to rise following the implementation of the Airport Infrastructure Development Levy, which takes effect today.
Under the new policy, domestic passengers will pay an additional GH¢100, while regional travelers will incur $30 for one-way trips and $70 for return journeys. International passengers will face $50 (one-way) and $100 (return) surcharges.
Government officials state that the levy is essential to finance critical infrastructure projects, including a new concourse linking Terminals 2 and 3 at Kotoka International Airport, expansion of parking facilities, and upgrades to regional airports.
Aviation expert Sean Mendis has supported the move, warning that Ghana must either increase charges or risk the financial collapse of its aviation infrastructure.
However, industry stakeholders have expressed concern that the policy could make Ghana one of the most expensive aviation hubs in Africa, potentially undermining competitiveness and contradicting ECOWAS directives calling for reduced air transport taxes.
The policy also comes amid rising global aviation fuel prices linked to Middle East tensions, further compounding cost pressures on airlines and passengers.
Commentary | Boakye Stephen
Infrastructure development is necessary, but timing is everything. Introducing higher levies in a high-cost environment risks pricing Ghana out of regional aviation competitiveness. Economic policy must balance revenue generation with strategic positioning, or risk long-term isolation in a highly competitive air transport market.
