McDan Aviation CEO Warns of Economic and Reputational Fallout from Private Jet Terminal Closure
The recent closure of McDan Aviation’s private jet terminal at Kotoka International Airport, prompted by a $3 million debt, has raised serious concerns about its potential impact on Ghana’s economy and tourism image. In a statement on Eyewitness News on December 30, 2024, the CEO of McDan Aviation warned that the shutdown could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s efforts to position itself as a leading tourism destination in West Africa.
The CEO highlighted the cascading effects the closure could have, not only on McDan Aviation but also on numerous other businesses and stakeholders tied to the terminal’s operations. He emphasized that the financial and reputational damage would extend far beyond the company itself.
Economic and Reputational Impact
“The problem is that this issue goes far beyond our business,” the CEO explained. “It will affect our ability to operate effectively, but it will also impact the many vendors who rely on us. This includes suppliers, catering services, cleaners, and a wide range of people who depend on the terminal for their livelihoods.”
The closure also affects Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), which benefits from royalties generated by the terminal. “GACL is entitled to royalties based on the revenues from our operations, so the longer the terminal is shut down, the more money they lose as well,” the CEO said.
However, the most significant concern raised was the reputational damage to Ghana’s tourism sector. “Imagine you’re traveling on a private jet, arriving at a private terminal, and then you hear on the news that the terminal has been shut down. What kind of impression would that leave about the country?” the CEO remarked. “This type of issue tarnishes not just McDan Aviation, but the entire ecosystem surrounding tourism in Ghana.”
Impact on Ghana’s Tourism Ambitions
The CEO further stressed that the terminal’s closure undermines the government’s broader efforts to establish Ghana as a top-tier tourism hub in the region. “This is not just a financial issue—it’s a serious blow to the country’s image. When things like this happen, it creates doubts about Ghana’s readiness to become a major player in global tourism. It discourages future investments, particularly in the high-end tourism and business aviation sectors.”
In summary, the CEO of McDan Aviation painted a grim picture of the ripple effects caused by the shutdown, noting that the situation poses both economic and reputational risks not only to his company but also to Ghana’s broader tourism ambitions.
