In a historic moment for Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region, Ethiopian Airlines flight ETH8719 has become the first international flight to land at the newly upgraded Kumasi Prempeh I International Airport.
The chartered flight, arranged in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, marks a critical step in testing the viability of international routes from Kumasi. It is supposed to pave the way for the launch of full commercial services, connecting Kumasi directly to global destinations and eliminating the need for travelers to transit through Accra.
This new route, designed to offer a more efficient connection for entrepreneurs and investors, highlights Kumasi’s rising market potential. The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) and Ethiopian Airlines have collaborated to position Kumasi as a significant travel hub in the region.
Local business leaders have welcomed the move, emphasizing its potential to attract international investors and increase Kumasi’s competitiveness as a commercial destination. The development is also expected to strengthen trade ties, boost tourism, and encourage more investment in infrastructure and local businesses.
However, challenges remain regarding the airport’s capacity to accommodate heavier aircraft, which require longer runways for smooth takeoffs. Aviation experts, speaking to The High Street Journal, cautioned that larger planes might face difficulties unless their passenger loads are reduced to lighten the aircraft’s weight. Managers of the airport would need to find a solution to this challenge in order to make the airport attractive to international commercial airlines.
