Ghana is close to concluding negotiations with Boeing as the government pursues plans to establish a national airline, Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Smith, has said.
Mr Smith disclosed this in an interview on JoyNews, adding that the government was also working to secure investors for the proposed carrier.
He said the return of a national airline would be an important legacy for President John Mahama, with the aim of having Ghana’s flag represented in the international aviation industry again.
“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.
The ambassador said public enthusiasm for a Ghanaian carrier was strong, arguing that passengers would welcome the opportunity to fly with an airline representing the country.
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“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.
On the proposed partnership, Mr Smith said the discussions with Boeing were at an advanced stage.
“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.
He did not, however, disclose the financial arrangements, the nature of Boeing’s proposed involvement or when the negotiations would be completed.
Ghana’s previous national carrier, Ghana Airways, collapsed in 2004. Ghana International Airlines, which was established as a successor, also ceased operations in 2010.
The latest initiative is part of renewed efforts to restore a national airline, but the proposed ownership structure, funding arrangements and operational plans have not yet been made public.
