Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister-Designate for Transport, has emphasised the importance of continuous engagement with aviation sector operatives to address operational challenges in Ghana’s airspace.
During his vetting session, Nikpe pointed out that the high cost of doing business in the country’s airspace often leads to increased expenses for operators, which are then passed on to consumers through higher airfares.
He suggested that refuelling operations be facilitated within the country to reduce operational costs and ease the burden on both the aviation industry and passengers.
The Minister-Designate expressed his commitment to engaging with stakeholders in the aviation sector and working with the government to address these operational challenges.
He also stressed that upon confirmation, he would focus on ensuring smoother operations within the airspace and improving the overall efficiency of the sector.
“The operatives in the aviation sector need constant engagement. They also need you to upgrade your facilities. For instance, doing business in Ghana’s airspace sometimes looks very expensive, so they pass on the bill.
“If we have them refuel in the country and they will not go to other countries, at least the cost of business will be reduced and airfares will also have some reduction. So, when approved by this committee, it is my interest to engage them such that we will look at some of the operational challenges and have the government address them so that we can operate freely in our airspace,” he stated.