Ghana’s aviation regulator supports entry of new carriers into domestic market — MyJoyOnline

In Ghana, the Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) said it is ready to allow new airlines into the domestic market to strengthen competition and help reduce airfares. GCAA Director General Stephen Wilfred Arthur acknowledged that the cost of domestic flights is a concern, MyJoyOnline reports.

Prices are determined by the market

Arthur stressed that the aviation regulator does not set ticket prices. According to him, fares are largely shaped by market factors. At the same time, the GCAA may intervene if it detects anti-competitive conduct or price collusion among carriers.

In such cases, the authority has the right to conduct an investigation and impose the necessary sanctions or other measures to restore competitive pricing. The head of the regulator noted that the emergence of more airlines would mean additional seats on flights and greater competition for passengers.

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Safety remains a condition for admission

According to Arthur, the GCAA is ready to ensure a level playing field for all potential carriers and guide them through the necessary regulatory procedures. He stressed that market expansion will not come at the expense of safety and aviation security requirements: each applicant must meet all established requirements before commencing flights.

Arthur also recalled the government’s abolition of import duties on aircraft spare parts. In his view, this could reduce the operating costs of domestic airlines, although fuel and leasing costs also affect the cost of flights. Lower fares, the GCAA chief believes, can increase demand for domestic air travel, while excessively high prices limit the number of people able to use it.