The persistent use of high-intensity lighting systems, lasers, and pyrotechnics near the aerial boundaries of Kotoka International Airport (KIA) is causing disruptions to the smooth landing and take-off of aircraft.
Human activities in areas including East Legon, Tema Motorway, La Wireless, Cantonments, and their surroundings are posing significant threats to the visibility of aircraft during approach and departure.
In response, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has issued a stern warning to the public, particularly operators of nightclubs and individuals, to refrain from using flashing lights, lasers, and pyrotechnics in the airspace surrounding the airport.
The GCAA has also alerted the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces to take action against these activities that jeopardize air safety.
William Wilberforce Amoako, the Manager of Safety Standards and Quality Assurance at GCAA, emphasized the prohibition of flying drones and dumping refuse within the airport’s aerodrome, both of which are punishable by law.
Drones can interfere with radio frequency transmissions, causing communication issues between pilots and control towers. Additionally, garbage dumped in the aerodrome attracts birds, posing a threat to approaching or departing aircraft.
Amoako expressed concern about the upcoming Christmas festivities, stating, “We are very worried about the pyrotechnics, high lighting system, and powerful lasers, especially when the Christmas festivities are just around the corner”.
“These activities when done at the approach part often blind the pilot and landing of the aircraft and so we are appealing to the public to reduce the intensity of their lighting systems, especially the night clubs”.
These safety challenges are not exclusive to KIA, as similar issues are recorded at other domestic airports across the country.
The GCAA and Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) jointly organized the Safety and Environment Week, an annual celebration aimed at promoting and emphasizing the importance of creating safe and resilient environments in the aviation industry.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating safety through just culture: Nurturing trust, accountability, and excellence in aviation,” underscores the commitment of both organizations to fostering a culture where safety is paramount.
Deputy Director-General of the GCAA, Daniel Acquah, highlighted that safety in the aviation industry goes beyond checklists and procedures, emphasizing its significance as a mindset and a way of life.
The collaborative working approach between regulators and operators was emphasized by Hanson Adu, Group Executive of the GACL, who stressed the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the safety of the country’s airspace.