No justification for new Airport Levy – Minority

Current Affairs

Els: MBN360 News

Minority members on Parliament’s Roads and Highways Committee have argued that there is no justification for the newly introduced airport infrastructure development charge on international flights.

Ghana implemented the new Airport Infrastructure Development Levy on April 1, 2026, a move that has significantly increased airfares. Domestic travellers now pay an additional GH¢100, while international passengers face extra charges ranging between $50 and $100.

The levy, which is intended to fund airport improvements, has sparked concerns over rising travel costs.

According to the Ranking Member of the Committee, Kennedy Osei Nyarko, passengers are already paying for the use of airport facilities, making the additional charge unnecessary.

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In an interview with Citi News on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru also described the GH¢100 levy on domestic flights as excessively high.

He further warned that the decision could negatively impact Ghana’s tourism sector by discouraging travel.

The levy is expected to fund major aviation infrastructure projects, including the construction of a connecting concourse between Terminals 2 and 3 at Kotoka International Airport, the development of a 2,000-space car park at Terminal 3, and rehabilitation works at regional airports.

The charge is projected to generate about $800 million over 10 years to support these projects. However, it has raised concerns about its impact on regional competitiveness and the potential to make Ghana one of the most expensive aviation markets in Africa

Airlines have already begun passing the cost directly to passengers, leading to increased ticket prices on domestic, regional, and long-haul routes.