Accra: Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, has inspected newly installed security screening equipment at Accra International Airport to strengthen aviation security and improve passenger facilitation. The inspection was conducted on Tuesday together with Mrs Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), following the installation of new screening machines at passenger checkpoints in Terminals Two and Three.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Nikpe stated that the government is committed to modernising aviation infrastructure to improve passenger comfort, strengthen security, and enhance Ghana's competitiveness as a regional aviation hub. He highlighted Ghana's strategic geographical location at the centre of West Africa, emphasizing its unique position to facilitate regional and international travel, thereby making continuous investment in airport infrastructure essential.
Mr Nikpe noted that the newly installed scanning machines are expected to significantly improve the passenger experience by eliminating the need for travellers to remove laptops from their bags during security screening. Passengers will also no longer be required to remove their shoes and belts during the screening process, making travel more convenient and preserving their dignity.
The Minister elaborated that the new technology will allow passengers to leave liquids of up to 100 mm in their hand luggage while passing through security checks, thereby reducing delays and inconvenience. He added that the installation complements other aviation security systems already deployed, such as the Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems, which support passenger profiling and strengthen national security.
Mr Nikpe urged airport authorities and security personnel to ensure effective utilisation and proper maintenance of the equipment to deliver world-class services to passengers. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening aviation security, improving passenger facilitation, and positioning Ghana as the preferred gateway for air travel within the ECOWAS sub-region.