The Minority in Parliament has criticised government’s decision to introduce a GH¢100 airport development levy on international round trips, describing it as expensive and potentially counter-productive.
The proposed levy is expected to raise about $800 million to finance critical aviation infrastructure projects. Under the policy, ECOWAS trips will attract a GH¢15 charge, while other African routes will incur a GH¢30 fee.
Speaking on Starr Today with Tutuwaa Danso, Deputy Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and MP for Bosome Freho, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, urged government to reconsider the move, warning it could undermine Ghana’s competitiveness in the aviation sector.
“If we go ahead and introduce this GH¢100 levy, Ghana will become one of the most expensive countries in the region… This is unprecedented for aviation-related charges and risks discouraging both passengers and airlines from routing through Ghana,” he said.
He cautioned that the levy could reduce passenger traffic and affect flight operations, despite Ghana’s position as a key aviation hub in the sub-region.
“Introducing a GH¢100 levy could drastically reduce that number if not carefully considered… such a high charge could negatively impact traffic and the number of flights,” he added.
The Minority further argued that the policy contradicts ongoing efforts by the Economic Community of West African States to lower travel costs and promote regional integration.
“ECOWAS has made significant strides to reduce travel and aviation costs within the sub-region. Implementing a GH¢100 levy would directly contradict these efforts and could be counter-productive,” he noted.
They also warned that the new charge could discourage tourism and investment, calling on government to review the policy to avoid unintended economic consequences.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh / Benjamin Sackey
