Mahama’s proposed Upper East Airport: An economic burden or a necessity?

President John Mahama has reiterated his promise to build a new airport in the Upper East Region. This commitment was made ahead of the 2024 general elections.

During his recent “Thank You Tour,” he announced plans for funding. He directed the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) to explore Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). He mentioned potential collaboration with gold mining companies.

“I have asked the managing director of GACL to start sourcing funds for the Upper East Regional Airport,” he said. The project aims to safely transport gold bullion from the region to Accra.

However, a key question remains: Is this project economically viable?

**Domestic Traffic Data**

By the third quarter of 2024, Ghana's domestic air passenger volume reached 623,704. Domestic air travel has fluctuated over the years. It peaked at 852,101 passengers in 2022 but fell to 775,662 in 2023. Average annual traffic ranges between 600,000 and 850,000 due to economic conditions and travel demand.

In 2023, Tamale Airport handled about 25% of domestic air travel in Ghana. It served 195,144 passengers and can accommodate around 400,000 annually. In contrast, Wa Airport had only 2,467 passengers that year and can handle about 50,000 annually.

These airports are located five or two hours away from the Upper East Region.

**Auditor General’s 2024 Report**

The Auditor General’s Report on regional airports raises concerns. In 2022, five regional airports generated only GHS13.13 million while costs soared to GHS39.14 million.

Ho Airport did not generate any revenue in 2022 despite operational costs of GHS1.38 million. This led the government to propose converting it into a Pilot Training School.

Sunyani and Wa airports also struggled financially with low revenues compared to expenses. Even Kumasi and Tamale airports operated at a loss due to insufficient passenger traffic.

The report states that none of Ghana's regional airports is economically viable. GACL management confirmed these airports rely on government support for operations.

“These regional airports cannot fund necessary development projects,” GACL stated regarding their financial situation.

Ghana's domestic airline industry is small with limited routes available. If larger airports like Kumasi and Tamale struggle financially, a new airport may face similar issues given existing facilities nearby.

**Idle God Airport: Misplaced Priorities?**

Instead of spending millions on another airport that may become idle, funds could address urgent needs in the region. Many schools still operate under trees or in poor conditions—money for an airport could improve education infrastructure instead.

JoyNews’ “Crumbling Start” highlights basic education crises across northern Ghana’s five regions. PPP funding for the new Upper East Airport could elevate local schools instead.

For example, $25 million spent on Ho Airport could have transformed local schools or provided clean water access for communities.

Investing in better road and rail networks would offer sustainable transportation solutions for the Upper East Region as well. Improved infrastructure would benefit more people and enhance trade at lower costs than air travel.