Airline ticket prices for both domestic and international travel are set to increase as carriers begin implementing the government’s Airport Infrastructure Development Levy.
The new charges are expected to drive up fares across all routes. Domestic passengers will pay an additional GH¢100 for flights within Ghana, while regional travellers will face an extra $30 for one-way tickets and $70 for return journeys. For international travel, passengers will incur a $50 surcharge on one-way tickets and $100 on return fares.
Government officials say the levy is aimed at addressing critical infrastructure gaps within the aviation sector. Revenue generated will support key projects, including the construction of a concourse linking Terminals 2 and 3 at Kotoka International Airport, the development of a 2,000-capacity car park at Terminal 3, and rehabilitation works at regional airports.
Industry experts have defended the move, noting that increased airport charges may be necessary to sustain and upgrade aviation infrastructure. They argue that without such interventions, existing facilities could struggle to cope with operational demands.
However, the policy has also sparked concerns among some stakeholders, who warn that the additional levy—combined with existing taxes—could make Ghana one of the most expensive aviation markets in the region, potentially affecting its competitiveness.
Questions have also been raised about how the new charges align with regional efforts to reduce air travel costs and improve connectivity across West Africa.
Passengers are therefore being advised to prepare for higher ticket prices, as the levy takes immediate effect. The increase comes at a time when airlines are already adjusting fares upward due to rising aviation fuel costs linked to global geopolitical tensions.
Analysts caution that if fully implemented, the new levy could significantly raise Ghana’s airport charges relative to regional and global averages, intensifying concerns about affordability for travellers.
