The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has categorically denied recent reports alleging critical safety lapses at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
In a statement issued on Friday, May 23, 2025, GACL responded to claims published by The Herald newspaper, describing them as “false, baseless, and malicious.”
According to the report published on May 23, 2025, a whistleblower from within GACL allegedly exposed serious safety issues at KIA, particularly within the Airside Operations Unit.
The reported concerns included insufficient operational vehicles, outdated signaling equipment, a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), and faulty communication systems.
These alleged lapses had reportedly sparked unrest among the Airside Operations Unit, with some staff threatening to withdraw their services.
However, in its official response, the company addressed each of the allegations in detail.
Contrary to the claim that only one operational vehicle is available for airside activities, GACL clarified that the Airside Operations Section has two dedicated vehicles, in addition to a fleet of operational vehicles that support 24/7 operations.
On the issue of equipment shortages, the company stated that there is a surplus of marshalling wands in stock at its central stores, refuting claims that only three pairs are currently functional.
“The number of marshalling wands used depends on aircraft movement. Currently, there is a surplus of marshalling wands in stock for operations at the company’s central stores,” the statement read.
GACL also emphasised that airside staff have been adequately supplied with the necessary PPE, including reflective vests, safety boots, ear defenders, and other protective gear.
“This assertion is categorically false. PPEs were distributed in Accra and the regional airports as well,” the company added.
Addressing concerns about communication tools, GACL noted that the Airside Operations Section is equipped with sufficient handheld and base radios to ensure smooth coordination with Air Traffic Control.
On the matter of access to restricted areas, the company explained that Aviation Security manages such access in line with strict protocols to uphold safety and security.
“This is to enhance security while maintaining safety standards, therefore the allegation of airside staff unable to access certain restricted areas to carry out inspections is false,” the statement explained.
The company also dismissed reports of widespread staff agitation, describing such claims as the work of a few individuals with self-serving motives.
“Staff found complicit in fabricating and spreading malicious lies about the organisation to put the image of the company, the management, and the government into disrepute, emanating from their own parochial interest, will be dealt with severely.”
The statement further cautioned media outlets against publishing unverified reports.
“Media houses who accept to disseminate defamatory articles without researching the facts will also be dealt with according to the full rigors of the law,” the GACL cautioned.
The company however urged the public to disregard the unfounded allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering safe, secure, and efficient airport operations across the country.
