The Ministry of Transport has officially announced the renaming of Ghana’s main international airport from Kotoka International Airport back to its original name, Accra International Airport.
In a press release dated February 23, the Ministry stated:
“The Ministry hereby informs the general public that the Government of Ghana has officially reverted the name of Kotoka International Airport to its original name, Accra International Airport.”
According to the statement, the facility was initially known as Accra International Airport before it was redesignated nearly six decades ago. Government has now deemed it appropriate to restore the airport to what it described as its former and internationally recognised name.
No Impact on Operations
The Ministry assured the public that the renaming will not affect airport operations, safety standards, or international travel arrangements. It noted that within the records of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the airport code has remained “ACC.”
“This change will not affect airport operations, safety standards, or international travel arrangements,” the statement emphasised.
Implementation of the name change will involve systematic updates to official documentation, statutory instruments where necessary, airport signage, digital platforms, aviation publications, and related communication materials.
The Ministry called on the general public, stakeholders, and international partners to support the transition.
“The general public, stakeholders, and international partners are kindly requested to support and cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. The Ministry appreciates the continued cooperation of all stakeholders.”
Bill to Be Presented to Parliament
The renaming follows an earlier announcement on February 3, when the government, through the Transport Ministry, proposed a bill to effect the change.
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, at a press conference, confirmed that the Minister for Transport would soon present the proposed legislation to Parliament.
“We are changing the name of our airport from Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport. So a bill will be brought by the Minister for Transport for the name to be changed from Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport. So the Accra International Airport bill will also come,” he said.
Debate Over the Name
The change comes 59 years after Ghana’s primary aviation hub was named Kotoka International Airport.
Public debate resurfaced last year over the airport’s name, with renewed calls from sections of the public, civil society groups, and commentators for the facility to be renamed. Advocates argued that national monuments and infrastructure should honour figures associated with democracy, unity, and constitutional governance.
The airport serves millions of passengers annually and remains Ghana’s principal aviation gateway, playing a critical role in trade, tourism, and international connectivity.
