Parliament has ratified a series of Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs), paving the way for Ghana to gain easier access to the airspace and airports of partner countries while strengthening its position as a regional aviation hub.
The agreements establish a legal framework that allows Ghana and its partner states to enjoy reciprocal aviation rights, reducing the need for lengthy diplomatic approvals before operating flights through each other’s airspace.
Speaking after Parliament’s approval, Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe said the ratification removes longstanding operational barriers that have complicated regional flight operations.
“This will now allow us to use the various airspace of the countries that are signing agreements. For instance, Benin was the first one we ratified. We can now have an agreement that allows us to use their airspace without any trouble,” he said.
Under international aviation regulations, commercial and state aircraft are generally required to obtain authorization before entering another country’s sovereign airspace. However, the minister explained that once these agreements have been ratified, the process becomes significantly more efficient.
“You have to have an agreement with the connected country before you can use their airspace. Even if you’re flying over a country, you need permission. But if you have these treaties or conventions ratified by Parliament, you can simply notify them that you are using the airspace, and you don’t need any further agreement,” Mr. Nikpe explained.
Beyond simplifying flight operations, the minister said the agreements will support Ghana’s broader aviation development agenda by enhancing aeronautical services, expanding aviation training opportunities, promoting regional trade, and facilitating the free movement of people and goods across participating West African countries.
He noted that the ratification will enable Ghanaian airlines and aviation authorities to operate more efficiently while improving connectivity within the sub-region.
Mr. Nikpe also thanked Parliament for approving the agreements, describing the move as a major step toward aligning Ghana’s aviation sector with international standards.
“Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to thank your good self and colleagues for going through this agreement and adopting them. This makes us compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),” he said.
The ratification is expected to optimize regional flight routes, reduce operational bottlenecks for airlines, and reinforce Ghana’s ambition of becoming the leading aviation hub in West Africa.
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