GCAA Marks 39th Anniversary with Renewed Commitment to Aviation Safety and Innovation

GCAA Marks 39th Anniversary with Renewed Commitment to Aviation Safety and Innovation

The Ag. Director General, Rev Stephen Wilfred Arthur, delivering remarks at the celebration.

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Friday,16 May, 2025 celebrated its 39th anniversary with a commemorative event at its headquarters at Kotoka International Airport, reaffirming its dedication to aviation safety, regulatory excellence, and innovation.

The ceremony, attended by key industry stakeholders, management and staff, retirees, and distinguished guests, featured a keynote address by the Director-General of the GCAA, Rev. Stephen W. Arthur. He reflected on the Authority’s evolution from its origins in 1930 as a unit within the Public Works Department to its formal establishment as an autonomous body in 1986 under PNDC Law 151.

“This anniversary is not merely a celebration of our years, but a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring safe skies across the Accra Flight Information Region,” Rev. Arthur said.

He outlined the Authority’s core responsibilities—including advising the government on aviation matters, managing air traffic services, and regulating air transport operations—and praised the GCAA’s consistent compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Advancing Through Reforms and Infrastructure

A major highlight of Rev. Arthur’s remarks was the ongoing structural reform to separate the Authority’s regulatory functions from its air navigation services. This transition, he explained, would pave the way for the establishment of a dedicated Air Navigation Services Provider (ANSP), allowing the GCAA to concentrate solely on its regulatory mandate.

“The internal committee overseeing this decoupling process will soon submit its report to the Ministry of Transport,” he announced. “This marks a significant step toward improving efficiency and specialization in our service delivery.”

He also revealed that construction of an ultra-modern air traffic control tower is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed by 2026. The new tower, equipped with advanced technology, will align Ghana’s air traffic infrastructure with international standards.

Rev. Arthur further charged staff to support the government’s vision of making Ghana a leading aviation hub in the sub-region.

“We cannot, as an Authority, distance ourselves from the vision of His Excellency the President of Ghana. It is a vision to position Ghana as an aviation hub in our sub-region,” he emphasized.

Empowering Staff and Fostering Unity

The Director-General introduced his personal theme, “No Staff Left Behind,” underscoring a renewed focus on inclusivity, unity, and empowerment. He emphasized that every staff member, regardless of role or tenure, plays an essential role in achieving the Authority’s objectives.

Addressing issues of workplace discipline and motivation, Rev. Arthur outlined a six-point strategy to strengthen organizational culture. The plan includes setting clear expectations, applying consistent and fair disciplinary measures, offering professional development opportunities, fostering a positive work environment, recognizing outstanding performance, and encouraging open communication.

“These efforts are geared toward cultivating a disciplined, motivated and high-performing workforce,” he noted.

Acknowledging Past and Present Contributors

Rev. Arthur expressed heartfelt appreciation to stakeholders who have contributed to the Authority’s journey—including past and present board members, staff, retirees, partners, and the Government of Ghana. He gave special recognition to retired staff for their dedication and sacrifices.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we must remember those who laid the foundation for our progress,” he said. “The GCAA will remain forever grateful for your service.”

He also congratulated long-serving staff members who were honored during the event for their loyalty and service.

“Let us continue to raise the flag of the GCAA high,” he urged. “Together, we can soar to even greater heights as we work toward the growth and prosperity of our beloved Mother Ghana.”

Stakeholder Remarks

Mr. John Kunyan Wumborti, acting commissioner of the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB), congratulated the GCAA for its decades of dedication, resilience, and progress. He lauded the Authority for its collaboration and commitment to aviation safety since its inception.

In her remarks, Mrs. Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the GCAA and GACL to propel Ghana’s aviation industry to even greater heights.

Looking Ahead: Planning for the 40th Anniversary

The event was also used to inaugurate the Planning Committee for the GCAA’s 40th anniversary celebration in 2026. The committee will be responsible for coordinating activities to mark this major milestone in the Authority’s history.