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GACL dispels claims of safety breaches and operational challenges at KIA
GACL dispels claims of safety breaches and operational challenges at KIA
By: Nii Ammui Fio | 3 mins read
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has dismissed reports alleging safety lapses and operational difficulties at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), describing them as inaccurate and damaging to the airport’s reputation.
In a press statement, GACL responded to recent claims suggesting that the airport was grappling with equipment shortages, inadequate security for staff, and issues surrounding restricted access control. According to the company, these allegations are “false and misleading” and appear to be part of a calculated attempt to tarnish the image of one of West Africa’s most prominent aviation hubs.
Refuting the claim that KIA has only one operational vehicle, GACL clarified: “The Airside Operations Section has two dedicated vehicles to support the airside operations, in addition to a fleet of operational vehicles available for round-the-clock use.”
Similarly, the assertion that just three pairs of marshalling wands are in service was dismissed. Management explained that the number of wands used varies depending on aircraft movement and that the airport currently has more than enough in stock to meet operational needs. “Currently there is a surplus of marshalling wands in stock for operations at the company’s central stores,” GACL emphasized.
Addressing allegations of safety breaches, the company highlighted that all personnel in the Airside Operations Section at both the Accra and regional airports have been provided with adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
GACL expressed strong concern about the impact of the reports on public confidence and warned of legal action against individuals or media houses found to be disseminating falsehoods. “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 statement warned.
In a move to boost efficiency at Terminal 3’s Car Park, which recently faced criticism over long queues, GACL has taken steps to improve customer experience. As of Wednesday, May 7, the number of pay points has been increased to six. The upgrade follows discussions between GACL and Propark, the private firm managing KIA’s parking services.
To assist users preferring mobile transactions, three staff members have been deployed to support mobile money payments. Customers who opt for card transactions will also be assisted by staff equipped with POS machines.
“We thank our cherished customers for their patience and continued patronage. Any inconvenience caused as a result of the long queues is deeply regretted,” the company stated.
Despite these improvements, some travelers remain dissatisfied, particularly with the continued reliance on cash payments and the reported inefficiency at the CIP car park. One frustrated user commented, “Try eliminate payment of physical cash,” advocating for the introduction of a full online payment system.
Another traveler complained about the CIP lounge experience: “It is unthinkable that each day, when the main T3 parks are full, customers who are directed to the CIP parking area do not have a pay station working and have to walk back to the main arrivals pay station only to make payment. What will it cost to staff the CIP pay station? It was put there to be used.”
While GACL has not yet addressed these specific issues, the recent upgrades signal an ongoing effort to improve service delivery and restore public confidence in operations at Kotoka International Airport.
