The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has intensified efforts to strengthen security culture across the country’s airports, warning that evolving global aviation threats require heightened vigilance and collective responsibility.

Managing Director of GACL, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, said Ghana cannot afford complacency in safeguarding its aviation infrastructure, stressing that strong security practices are essential to protecting passengers, investments and national assets.

She was speaking at the Aviation Security Culture Week, an initiative aimed at deepening security awareness, professionalism and shared responsibility among airport staff and industry stakeholders.

“I wish to assure all GACL staff, particularly our aviation security personnel, our stakeholders and everyone gathered here that management is fully committed to the security culture programme and will continue to champion its implementation across all our airports,” she said.

According to her, the aviation security landscape is becoming increasingly complex as threats such as terrorism and unlawful interference continue to evolve.

“These realities demand heightened vigilance, continuous innovation and collective responsibility. We cannot afford complacency. Our airports are national assets and must be protected at all times with unwavering commitment,” Ms Opare added.

She also commended the aviation security department for Ghana’s strong performance during the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation security audits conducted in February 2024, describing the outcome as a reflection of the country’s growing commitment to aviation safety and security standards.

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, who also addressed the event, emphasised that aviation security is central to public confidence and the long-term growth of the sector.

He noted that government remains committed to securing the aviation industry and has introduced advanced passenger information and passenger name record systems to strengthen threat detection.

“Government is working hard to ensure seamless and safe travel by putting in place systems that allow security agencies to identify potential threats even at the point of ticket purchase,” the minister said.

He stressed that Ghana cannot allow security threats to undermine the aviation industry or passenger safety.

Director of Safety Regulation at the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Franklin Otchere Gyamera, highlighted the aviation sector’s critical role in socio-economic development, noting that its strategic importance also makes it a target for global security threats.

He called for greater cooperation among stakeholders, stressing that building and sustaining a strong security culture is essential to protecting the industry.

“We therefore need the collective sacrifice, effort and cooperation of all stakeholders in the aviation industry. The development and preservation of a strong security culture is one of the most effective measures,” he said.