The Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, James Agalga, has defended the development of Ho Airport, insisting it is a strategic project rather than a misplaced priority.
Speaking on the Super Morning Show on April 7, Mr Agalga responded to concerns about the viability of regional airports, including Ho Airport.
“If you go to the United States, they have world-class highways, but that does not stop them from developing airport infrastructure to reduce travel time. The Ho Airport is no different,” he said.
He explained that airports serve multiple purposes beyond passenger travel, including cargo operations, investment attraction, and aviation training.
“Who says airports are meant only for passenger traffic?” he asked, noting that Ho Airport has attracted investor interest for flight training schools, reducing the need for Ghanaian pilots to train abroad.
“As we speak, the Ho Airport will soon be put to commercial use. Investors are coming forward to establish flight training schools. Without the airport, would anyone consider Ho for such initiatives?” he added.
Constructed at an estimated cost of US$25 million, Ho Airport’s development began in September 2015 and was completed in 2018. The facility includes a passenger terminal and runway designed to support commercial air traffic and related services.
Mr Agalga emphasised that the airport is intended to boost tourism, stimulate economic growth in the Volta Region, and support broader aviation-related activities.
