Aircraft Accident Bureau pushes for nationwide rescue integration

The Aircraft Investigation Bureau (AIB) was established in 2020. It investigates aircraft accidents and promotes aviation safety under Ghanaian law.

Previously, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) handled these investigations. However, international standards from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) required an independent body to avoid conflicts.

Ghana is one of the first West African countries to comply with this requirement. The country recently received a 99.8 percent air safety rating from ICAO, ranking it among the highest globally.

Mr. Wumborti stated that this achievement reflects President Mahama’s commitment to aviation safety. The AIB has offices in Accra and Tamale but faces logistical challenges in remote areas.

In contrast, the Ambulance Service operates in all 16 regions of Ghana. This presents an opportunity for collaboration between the two agencies.

“Aircraft accidents can happen anywhere,” Mr. Wumborti noted. He emphasized the need for nationwide coordination during incidents.

The Bureau plans to collaborate on training and developing protocols for first responders. Technical Adviser Alhaji Saani Adams highlighted that multiple countries may be involved in investigations due to global aircraft manufacturing.

“We can have over 20 countries interested in a single accident,” Mr. Adams explained. They want details about everything from design to engine and tyres.

Mr. Wumborti cited Act 1028 as a legal basis for cooperation with the Ambulance Service. “Our law mandates collaboration, especially when survivors need medical attention,” he said.

The Bureau is also exploring investigations into rail and maritime accidents, following trends in Nigeria. For now, their focus remains on strengthening aviation response systems.

“Strong institutions are built through collaboration,” Mr. Wumborti said about their partnership's importance for national development.

Prof. Ahmed N. Zakariah, CEO of the Ghana Ambulance Service, stressed public education and preventive measures for air transport safety. He described the new AIB law as a positive step forward.

He called for stronger research collaborations and continuous improvement within the sector. Some airports excel at safety protocols while others struggle with mandatory ambulance services on-site.

“Time is critical during emergencies; ambulances shouldn’t come from far away,” he urged, advocating for designated ambulance service offices at all airports based on Bureau recommendations.

Prof. Zakariah also emphasized introducing an air ambulance system alongside improved land services. Such a system is essential for accessing remote accident sites quickly.

He clarified that relying on the air force is not enough; a dedicated air ambulance system is necessary instead of occasional support from them.

He called for better collaboration with stakeholders to establish this system and reiterated his advocacy efforts on this issue: “With the Commissioner now in place, we should move it forward.”