Ghana Airways to Return in 2027: Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa Reveals Mahama’s Revival Plan

Ghana Airways could resume operations in 2027, more than two decades after the former national carrier stopped flying, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has said. Ablakwa said President John Dramani Mahama had established a technical committee to oversee the airline’s revival and that the committee had submitted its report. He said the president had set 2027 as the target for the airline’s return.

The minister also disclosed that Mahama had held discussions with Boeing executives about the proposed carrier. The talks are expected to cover aircraft, technical support, training and the wider structure required to establish a sustainable airline.

A direct route between Ghana and Canada is being considered as one of the proposed carrier’s priorities. Ablakwa said the route would serve Ghanaians living in Canada while supporting business, tourism and stronger links with the Ghanaian diaspora.

Reports indicate that the government’s discussions with Boeing extend beyond the purchase or leasing of aircraft. The proposed partnership could include training Ghanaian pilots and engineers, technology transfer and support for the development of Ghana’s aviation industry.

President Mahama has also reportedly expressed interest in establishing a regional Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul hub in Ghana. Such a facility could service aircraft from across West Africa, create skilled jobs and strengthen the country’s position as an aviation and logistics centre.

However, several key details remain unclear, including the airline’s ownership structure, financing arrangements, fleet size, operating partner and initial routes. No final aircraft order or formal Boeing agreement has been publicly announced.

The government’s plans come after repeated attempts to restore a national carrier. Ghana Airways, which was established in 1958, ceased operations in 2004 after years of financial difficulties and heavy debts. Ghana International Airlines was later created as a replacement but stopped operating in 2010.

A separate report by West Africa Weekly said Mahama wants a national airline operating before the end of his current term in January 2029. Boeing executives reportedly indicated that a launch could be possible within about 18 months if Ghana establishes the necessary legal, financial and operational structures.

The proposed revival has generated public interest but also renewed attention to the challenges that undermined earlier national-airline projects. Analysts say the success of the plan will depend on transparent financing, professional management, regulatory readiness and a sustainable business model rather than political ambition alone.