Ghana is expected to acquire new aircraft for presidential travel by November 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s state aviation capacity. The announcement was made by Dr. Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to President John Mahama, in response to recent public discussions about the aircraft used for official presidential trips.
According to Dr. Mahama, the government has already initiated plans to expand the presidential fleet to ensure that Ghana can rely fully on state-owned aircraft for official duties. The move forms part of a broader effort to improve the operational capacity of the country’s air transport systems under the Ghana Armed Forces.
The decision follows public debate about the temporary use of a private aircraft belonging to the President’s brother for some international trips. Critics had raised concerns about the potential perception of conflict of interest. Dr. Mahama explained that the arrangement was temporary and largely due to operational limitations of existing state aircraft, some of which are not suitable for long-range diplomatic missions.
He noted that presidential travel involves complex considerations including security protocols, communication systems, diplomatic schedules and the need for the Head of State to remain fully functional while abroad. Strengthening the presidential fleet, he said, will allow Ghana to rely on its own resources for official travel.
Once the additional aircraft are delivered and operational, the government expects to end temporary travel arrangements and ensure more efficient and secure transportation for the President during international engagements.
Source: MyJoyOnline
Reporter: Emma Ankrah
