Airports in Ghana
Accessibility and Friendliness
Air travel is an essential part of modern transportation, and ensuring that airports are accessible to all passengers, including those with disabilities, is crucial. In Ghana, the government’s focus on inclusivity has led to improvements in accessibility at major airports, though challenges still exist. This article explores the accessibility of airports in Ghana, the services available for disabled passengers, and areas for potential improvement.
Ghana has several airports, with the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra being the largest and most significant. Other notable airports include Kumasi International Airport, Tamale International Airport, and Takoradi Airport. These airports handle both domestic and international flights, serving as critical hubs for travelers within and outside the country.
Accessibility Features at Kotoka International Airport (KIA)
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) – Located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana, Kotoka International Airport is the country’s main airport. It serves as the hub for major airlines. The airport has terminals, dedicated to domestic flights and the other for international flights., as the primary gateway into Ghana, has made significant strides in enhancing accessibility for disabled passengers:
- Wheelchair Accessibility: KIA provides wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways to ensure smooth movement within the terminal. There are designated areas for passengers with reduced mobility to wait comfortably.
- Special Assistance Services: The airport offers special assistance services, including help with boarding, deplaning, and navigating through the airport. Passengers can request these services in advance, ensuring that their needs are met upon arrival.
- Accessible Restrooms: The airport has accessible restrooms designed to accommodate passengers with disabilities. These restrooms are spacious and equipped with the necessary facilities to ensure comfort and ease of use.
- Signage and Information: Clear and visible signage throughout the airport helps guide passengers with visual impairments. Audio announcements are also made regularly, and information desks are available to assist those who need further guidance.
Accessibility at Regional Airports
While Kotoka International Airport has made commendable progress, the situation at regional airports varies:
Kumasi International Airport: is located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana and serves the city of Kumasi. It is the second-busiest airport in Ghana after Kotoka International Airport and handles both domestic and international flights. This airport has basic accessibility features, including wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms. However, the range of services is more limited compared to KIA.
Takoradi Airport: Takoradi Airport is located in the Western Region of Ghana and serves the city of Takoradi. It mainly handles domestic flights but also serves some international destinations. These regional airports have fewer accessibility features. Although they provide some basic services, such as wheelchair assistance, the infrastructure may not be as developed, leading to challenges for disabled passengers.
Tamale Airport (TML) – Tamale Airport is located in the Northern Region of Ghana and serves the city of Tamale. It is one of the busiest airports in northern Ghana and handles domestic flights.
Sunyani Airport (NYI) – Sunyani Airport is located in the Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana and serves the city of Sunyani. It mainly handles domestic flights.
Wa Airport (WZA) – Wa Airport is located in the Upper West Region of Ghana and serves the city of Wa. It is a relatively small airport that mainly handles domestic flights.
Ho Airport (HRI) – Ho Airport is located in the Volta Region of Ghana and serves the city of Ho.
It is a relatively new airport that mainly handles domestic flights.
Ghana’s airports are gradually becoming more accessible to disabled passengers, with Kotoka International Airport leading the way. While there is still work to be done, especially in regional airports, the progress made so far is encouraging. By continuing to invest in accessibility features, training, and technology, Ghana can ensure that its airports are welcoming and accommodating to all travelers, regardless of their physical abilities.