Domestic Airlines in Ghana to reduce fares

Patrons of domestic airlines in the country are likely to start enjoying fares as low as GhC 30 from Accra to Kumasi by the first quarter of next year following increased competition in the domestic aviation sector.

The sector which has four airlines, Citylink, Antrak, Starbow and 540, currently operating is expected to see more airlines joining the industry by the first quarter of 2012.

This is expected to push domestic fares down. Already, fares between Accra and Kumasi are hovering between 90 and 120 Ghana cedis.

The president of the Ghana Association of Travels and Tourist Agents (GATA), Hillariius Macash Akpah Snr. has said though industry players are hopeful the prices will drop significantly due to the competition, flyers must also demand a drop in fares.

"During this Christmas, they can bring the cost down to about 30 or 35 Ghana cedis for those who want to go to Kumasi and Koforidua for the holidays,” he stated.

The entrance of new airlines, Starbow and 540, are reported to have contributed to a drop in current fares.