Africa World Airlines (AWA) has signed a partnership agreement with Lufthansa Group operators of Brussels Airlines to conduct a single air ticket for travellers across nine African destinations. Speaking to JoyBusiness at the event, the Chief Operation Officer of Africa World Airlines, Sean Mendis indicated that “the important thing about this partnership is that it’s giving an opportunity for passengers who originate or terminate their destinations beyond or from Accra to get a seemless travel experience between Brussels and Africa World Airlines. Passengers are now able to book one ticket from one destination to the other without having to book the second time and this makes it convenient and easier for travellers without interruption”. The Regional Manager of Lufthansa Group Airline, Pierre Declerck on his part indicated that “Brussels Airlines has a long-standing experience in the African market and we are constantly looking for ways to offer additional convenient flight options to our valued customers. This partnership with AWA will serve to solidify our position as the airline of choice for passengers travelling between Ghana, Brussels, and points beyond.” Cost of Operation Mr Mendis said he disagrees with views that the operation cost in the aviation industry in Ghana is expensive compared to other African countries. “I disagree completely. I think Ghana has the most cost-effective regimes in the region. It’s cheaper to operate in Ghana than Code d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Sierra Leon, Liberia etc. The government has made tremendous effort in reducing taxes on domestic and you only pay GH¢5.00 in tax. I challenge anyone to provide the record of anywhere that it is cheaper in the region”. According to him, the infrastructure and security features all come with a cost as long as passengers are satisfied with services that should justify the cost of doing business. He reiterated that the cost of aviation fuel in Ghana is competitively moderate compared to what other countries offer. He said air travel is the safest means of transport in the world more especially looking at the deplorable nature of the roads across Ghana. On his part, the Minister for Aviation Joseph Kofi Adda indicated that his Ministry in the coming days will hold sensitization and education programs for the public to know their rights as travellers.  This he said would aid passengers to demand their rights and compensation when the need arises.