The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) have jointly announced extended operational hours for Prempeh I International Airport (PIA) in Kumasi and Tamale International Airport (TIA), a move aimed at strengthening domestic air connectivity and aligning with the government’s broader 24-hour economy agenda.
The joint statement said “effective immediately, Prempeh I International Airport will operate until 11:00 p.m., while Tamale International Airport will now close at 10:00 p.m.”
The policy shift is expected to enhance travel convenience for passengers connecting from international destinations, particularly those arriving at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) from Europe, the UK, and beyond.
Passengers arriving in Accra on late evening international flights can now directly connect to Kumasi and Tamale without the need to overnight in the capital, pending increased evening flight frequencies by domestic airlines.
According to GCAA and GACL, the decision forms part of government’s economic reset strategy, anchored by its flagship 24-hour economy policy, and is aimed at improving livelihoods and spurring economic activity in regional centers like Kumasi and Tamale.
“We are confident this measure will stimulate economic activity in these cities while offering greater flexibility and comfort to travelers,” said a joint statement from the two agencies.
Business operators at the two regional airports especially concessionaires such as food and beverage vendors and car rental firms have welcomed the extended hours, projecting a significant increase in revenue from the anticipated growth in passenger traffic.
“We see this as a great opportunity to expand our operations and better serve customers, especially during the evening rush,” said a concessionaire at Prempeh I International Airport.
Domestic airlines have been encouraged to increase frequencies on the Kumasi and Tamale routes, particularly for departures after 8:00 p.m., to meet rising demand. A formal Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has also been issued to notify airlines of the revised operational schedules.
