Kenya Airways Considers Direct Flights to Kumasi Airport
Today, we bring you an exciting development from Nairobi-based Kenya Airways (KQ). The airline is contemplating operating direct flights to the new Kumasi International Airport in Ghana. Let’s dive into the details.
The Kumasi International Airport, located at the heart of Ghana’s second most populated city, Kumasi, has undergone a total makeover within the past half-decade. The new ultra-modern terminal building is capable of handling over 800,000 passengers per year and also boasts modern passenger processing installations. Jet A1 (aviation fuel) is also available at the facility
Kenya Airways’ Ambitious Plan
Nairobi-based Kenya Airways (KQ) is exploring the possibility of operating direct flights to the new Kumasi International Airport in Ghana. This move aims to strengthen bilateral trade and tourism ties between the two friendly nations. According to data from the Overseas Development Institute (ODI), Ghana exported goods worth $5.46 million to Kenya in 2022. Key exports from Ghana to Kenya also included Coconut Oil (valued at $2.44 million), Cocoa Powder (valued at $1.66 million), and Other live plants, cuttings, and slips; mushroom spawn (valued at $595,000). In return, Kenya exported goods worth $9.53 million to Ghana during the same period. Notable exports from Kenya to Ghana also included coconut and other vegetable fibers (valued at $5.08 million), Tea (valued at $1.24 million), and aluminium plating (valued at $580,000).
Flourishing Tourism and Visa Waiver Agreement
Beyond trade, there has been a growing flow of tourists between Kenya and Ghana. This trend is fueled by a longstanding visa waiver agreement and also the allure of attractions in both countries. Mr. Allan Kilavuka, the CEO of Kenya Airways, expressed the airline’s interest in Kumasi. During a media engagement in Accra, he stated, “We are looking at this marketplace favorably, so in the first place, it [operating flights to Kumasi Airport] is something to consider.” The Kumasi International Airport, situated in Ghana’s second most populous city, has also undergone significant upgrades in recent years. The ultra-modern terminal building can handle over 800,000 passengers annually and boasts modern passenger processing facilities and also navigation aids. Additionally, Jet A1 (aviation fuel) is readily available at the facility.
Feasibility and Future Prospects
Mr. Kilavuka emphasized that flying to Kumasi appears viable and would be favorably evaluated by Kenya Airways management. He added, “We just need to go back and also work out on how, not if, we can operate some frequencies to Kumasi Airport. Our preliminary analysis demonstrates the commercial viability of servicing the Kumasi International Airport.” The airport’s current runway length of 1,994 meters can accommodate aircraft such as A319s, A320s, and Boeing 737s. Plans are underway to extend the runway to 2,300 meters or more to accommodate larger aircraft.
Remember, dear viewers, this potential direct flight connection could enhance business opportunities, cultural exchanges, and tourism experiences between Kenya and Ghana. Let’s keep an eye on this exciting development.
