The Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, James Agalga, has defended the government’s Airport Infrastructure Development Levy, describing it as critical to financing urgent upgrades at the Kotoka International Airport.
Speaking on the Joy Super Morning Show, Mr. Agalga cited increasing congestion and ageing infrastructure as key challenges facing the country’s main international gateway.
He recounted a personal experience to highlight the severity of the situation, noting that he nearly missed a flight due to traffic congestion at the airport, forcing him to abandon his vehicle and run with his luggage.
According to him, the construction of a multi-storey car park is urgently needed to ease vehicular congestion and improve passenger movement within the airport enclave.
Mr. Agalga further revealed that critical infrastructure, including the runway, apron and sewage treatment plant, is due for refurbishment. He warned that failure to undertake a runway overlay could lead to a downgrade of the airport’s status.
“If we fail to act, the status of the airport could be downgraded, despite currently being among the best in the sub-region,” he stated, adding that the airport remains a preferred destination for large aircraft operators due to its strategic location.
The recently introduced levy, which applies to both domestic and international flights, has sparked public concern over rising airfares.
However, Mr. Agalga explained that proceeds from the levy will be directed toward completing critical but long-delayed infrastructure projects, including runway rehabilitation, expansion of the northern apron and the construction of a connecting concourse.
He noted that many of these projects have stalled over the years due to the heavy subsidisation of airport operations, making the levy a necessary step to ensure sustained development and maintain international standards.
