Accra International Airport will no longer require passengers to remove their shoes and belts for security screening. This change will begin in August. The government is installing new security equipment to speed up the process. This upgrade aims to improve the travel experience for everyone at the airport.
President John Dramani Mahama announced the change. He stated that modern technology is being introduced. This new equipment will allow for stronger aviation security. It will also reduce inconvenience for travellers. These improvements are part of a larger plan. The government wants to make Ghana a leading travel centre in West Africa. This is according to a statement made on Monday.
The country is focusing on modernising its aviation sector. This move aligns with a broader digitalisation drive. Ghana has also launched a new electronic visa system, known as the E-visa platform. This system simplifies entry for international visitors. It aims to reduce delays from traditional visa applications. Aviation experts and tourism officials have welcomed the upgrade. They have long called for passenger-friendly systems. Such systems are common in major international airports globally.
The new screening technology is expected to cut down on long queues at security checkpoints. Passenger processing times should also improve. This makes Ghana more attractive as a destination for tourism and transit. Airlines operating through Accra may also see efficiency gains. Faster boarding and clearance processes will benefit them. The Accra International Airport is Ghana's main international gateway. It handles millions of passengers each year.
The practice of removing shoes, jackets, and belts during security checks has been standard for years. This was amplified by increased global aviation security concerns. However, advancements in scanning technology now allow for high-level screening. This can be done without passengers removing personal items. This makes air travel faster and more convenient. The government plans to share more details soon. This includes the exact rollout timeline and future plans for other airports.
Data from the Ghana Airports Company Limited shows that Accra International Airport saw over 2 million passengers in 2023. This figure highlights the importance of efficient passenger flow. The cost of implementing such advanced security systems can be substantial, often running into millions of dollars. However, the long-term benefits in terms of passenger satisfaction, increased tourism revenue, and operational efficiency are projected to outweigh the initial investment. The government’s commitment to transforming Ghana into a modern aviation and logistics hub is evident in this strategic investment.