Ghana in final talks with Boeing over revival of national airline – Ambassador Smith

Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Smith, says negotiations with Boeing over the establishment of a national airline are nearing completion.

Speaking in an interview on JoyNews, Mr Smith said the government was working to finalise arrangements to revive the national carrier, with efforts also underway to attract investors to the project.

“We are looking for investors. They may invest in this effort. They may get something out of it. What is important for me is the legacy that the President will leave when he's leaving office—that we will have a national flag back in the air. That is important for me,” he said.

Mr Smith said there was considerable public interest in the return of a national airline, arguing that many Ghanaians would welcome the opportunity to travel with a carrier bearing the country’s flag.

“Ghanaians are more excited flying their own flag than flying British Airways or Delta or United and being charged huge amounts for tickets. They think that we would feel more comfortable and fly in our own flag,” he said.

The Ambassador said discussions with Boeing had reached an advanced stage, although he did not provide details of the proposed agreement or indicate when it would be concluded.

“We are in talks with Boeing. The deal is nearing completion. We are working to ensure that Ghana has a national airline that we can all be proud of,” he stated.

Ghana has been without a national airline since the collapse of Ghana Airways in 2004 and Ghana International Airlines in 2010.

Successive governments have explored options for establishing a new national carrier, including partnerships with international aviation companies.

The latest effort is aimed at restoring a national airline, although details of its ownership structure, financing, operational model and expected launch date have yet to be provided.