President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to expand the use of the Ho Airport beyond commercial passenger flights, with government exploring opportunities to position the facility as an aviation hub.

Speaking during his 'Resetting Ghana Tour' in the Volta Region on July 17, Mahama said the airport, despite its potential, has been underutilised due to limited commercial traffic between Ho and Accra.

He said government is now pursuing alternative aviation-related activities, including the establishment of a pilot training school and facilities to train aeronautical engineers.

According to him, land has already been allocated by the Ghana Airport Company Limited for the pilot training facility, which will create opportunities for young people seeking careers in aviation.

“It will train pilots here in Ho. It will also train aeronautical engineers, those who are engineers who service the planes,” President Mahama said.

The President added that plans are also being considered for aircraft maintenance and servicing facilities at the airport, allowing private aircraft owners from Ghana and other countries to access local aviation support services.

He said the facility could provide parking, cleaning and minor repair services for private jets, creating another stream of economic activity for the region.

President Mahama noted that airports are built not only for passenger travel but also for broader economic purposes, adding that government is committed to maximising the potential of regional airports.

He explained that improved domestic air connectivity remains important, as passengers travelling between parts of the country should not always have to rely on Accra as the main aviation gateway.

The President said linking cities such as Ho, Kumasi and Tamale through domestic air routes could help promote trade, tourism and regional development.

He further indicated that developments around the airport, including the Tema Development Corporation’s Oxygen City project, are expected to increase economic activity and enhance the value of the surrounding area.