The 42nd Triennial Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) is currently being held in Montreal, Canada.
Addressing the assembly here on Monday, the Minister of Transport, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to international aviation safety, security, and sustainability at the ongoing conference.
He commended ICAO’s leadership in guiding global aviation toward “recovery, resilience, and transformation” at a time when the industry is being reshaped by artificial intelligence, evolving security threats, and sustainability demands.
He underscored Ghana’s strong support for ICAO’s ‘No Country Left Behind Initiative,’ and called for enhanced cooperation to help African States close safety oversight gaps, modernise air navigation systems, and develop climate-resilient infrastructure.
As part of Ghana’s aviation progress, the Transport Minister announced the launch of the Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) Systems in August 2025.
According to Mr Nikpe, the systems aligned with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2178 and ICAO Standards, representing a major step forward in strengthening Ghana’s aviation security framework.
Additionally, he highlighted the government’s continued investment in modern airport infrastructure, adding that the Kotoka International Airport remained the hub of Ghana’s aviation sector, while Kumasi and Tamale airports had been upgraded to international status.
He hinted that plans were also underway to establish a state-of-the-art flight training school and a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centre to serve Ghana and the wider West African sub-region.
On environmental sustainability, the Minister reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to ICAO’s Long- Term Global Aspirational Goals (LTAGs) for net-zero carbon emissions. He said Ghana is implementing the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and exploring the use of sustainable aviation fuels.
He further emphasised Ghana’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that the country is represented at ICAO by a distinguished female delegate, in line with ICAO’s Gender Equality Programme.
As part of participation in the conference, Nikpe paid a courtesy call on ICAO Council President, Salvatore Sciacchitano, where he shared Ghana’s aviation achievements and future ambitions.
There, Mr Nikpe revealed plans to establish a national airline to enhance connectivity across Africa and beyond, and expressed appreciation for ICAO’s continued support.
On his part, Mr Sciacchitano commended Ghana for her leadership role in African aviation and pledged ICAO’s continued assistance in sustaining the country’s progress.
Moreover, Mr Nikpe held meetings with the Ministers of Transport of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates to explore opportunities for closer aviation cooperation.
BY TIMES REPORTER
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