KIA runway expansion underway after 30 years - GACL

Ghana's Kotoka International Airport (KIA) runway is currently undergoing expansion works after being left largely unused for 30 years.

The runway expansion project, which began in July 2025, aims to ensure continued safety, reliability, and efficiency for passengers and airlines.

The project includes a runway overlay, installation of an LED Approach Guidance Lighting (AGL) system, and rehabilitation of the runway drainage. It is expected to be completed by July 2027.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a runway tour on Monday, February 16, 2026, the Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, noted that the lifespan of the runway repairs had exceeded its limit, making it necessary for GACL to carry out an overlay and repairs to support operations.

KIA Runway Overlay and Repair Works: What We Know So Far

She explained that the expansion was necessitated by Ghana’s increasing travel population and the growing number of aircraft.

“The expansion is from 60 metres to 75 metres. When completed, it will be a wider runway than what we currently have. At present, the runway is about 60 metres wide. Once the overlay is completed, it will be 75 metres wide. The reason for this is that we have a growing populace and increasing air traffic,” she said.

She added that the expansion would serve future generations and benefit the company as a whole.

“The aircraft coming in are more, the passengers coming in are more, so we are expanding for the future. When we undertake projects, we must think not only of today and the current numbers but also look ahead. Ten years from now, it should still be fit for purpose,” she added.

For his part, the Project Director on site, Ehud Derrick, noted that all design works have been successfully completed, allowing construction to proceed on schedule.

“The schedule is very important, and according to the timeframe, we are supposed to finish the project in July next year. For now, we don’t see any need for an extension,” he said.

SP/MA

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