The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has launched activities to mark its 40th anniversary in Accra, pledging to position the country as West Africa’s leading aviation hub.

Celebrations will feature training programmes, educational outreaches, staff engagement events, and an exhibition and open day displaying archival photographs, aircraft, radar and communication equipment from the past four decades.

Schools and members of the public are expected to participate.

Other activities include an inter-agency health walk, wellness events, a conference on aviation and education, a traditional day celebrating Ghanaian culture, and a grand climax on May 16, 2026, under the theme “Celebrating 40 years of aviation excellence in Ghana.”

Launching the anniversary, Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe said government had intensified investments in infrastructure and regulatory reforms.

He highlighted ongoing expansion works at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), including a new air traffic control tower and a connecting concourse between Terminals Two and Three to ease congestion and improve efficiency.

He added that plans for a national carrier and the proposed renaming of the airport to Accra International Airport would support the country’s broader aviation hub strategy and boost competitiveness in the sub-region.

Upgrades at regional airports and investments in air navigation, surveillance systems and modern facilities are also underway to improve connectivity and meet international standards.

GCAA Director-General Stephen Wilfred Arthur said the authority, which gained autonomous status on May 16, 1986, under PNDC Law 151, had grown into a strong and self-sustaining regulator.

He noted that while the organisation had made significant progress, challenges remained in financing, equipment, technology and manpower.

He expressed appreciation to the ministry, board, management and staff for their continued support and commitment to maintaining safety and professionalism in the aviation sector.