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The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced the activation of extensive contingency measures to guarantee uninterrupted air traffic services throughout the Accra Flight Information Region (FIR) in anticipation of a nationwide strike planned by the Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA). In a statement released on Wednesday, October 29, the Authority reassured airline operators, aviation stakeholders, and the travelling public of its commitment to providing “the continued safe, reliable, and secure provision of air traffic services” despite the impending industrial action set to commence on Thursday, October 30, 2025. The statement from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) emphasized, “We wish to assure all airline operators, aviation stakeholders, and the travelling public that extensive contingency measures have been activated to ensure the continued safe, reliable, and secure provision of air traffic services across the Accra Flight Information Region (FIR).” It further clarified that management has “developed and implemented a CNS/ATM Systems Contingency Plan to maintain operational continuity and prevent disruptions to both domestic and international flight operations.” According to the GCAA, the contingency plan includes “detailed operational procedures, designated response teams, and robust coordination mechanisms aimed at upholding aviation safety and service integrity during the period of industrial action.” The Authority called for calm among travellers and stakeholders, stating, “GCAA remains fully committed to upholding the highest standards of air navigation service delivery and ensuring the safety and security of all flights within Ghana’s airspace.” Additionally, it assured that it “will continue to prioritize human capacity development and promote staff welfare.” The announcement comes as the Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) declares an indefinite nationwide strike commencing on October 30, 2025, due to longstanding grievances regarding inadequate welfare conditions and what it refers to as management inaction at the GCAA. In a separate statement endorsed by its President, Engr. David Annan Mensah, the association indicated that its members’ patience had “completely run out” following years of petitions and unsuccessful engagements concerning inequitable job placements, unjust salary administration, and unresolved welfare issues that have persisted for over 15 years. GhATSEA also accused the GCAA’s Director of Human Resources, Mr. Ebenezer Sagoe, of overseeing ongoing mismanagement that has “eroded confidence” in his office and called for his removal. Additionally, it criticized Acting Director-General Rev. Stephen Arthur and Acting Deputy Director-General (Technical) Mr. Theophilus Ago for what it characterized as a “do your worst” attitude towards staff grievances. If the planned strike proceeds, Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs) will withdraw their services. These personnel are responsible for maintaining essential communication, navigation, and surveillance systems — including radar, radio, and instrument landing operations — at major airports such as Kotoka International, Kumasi, Tamale, Sunyani, Ho, and Wa. GhATSEA cautioned that this action could render air travel unsafe for both domestic and international operations, although GCAA asserts that its contingency measures will avert any significant disruptions. Share this: Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Like this:Like Loading...
