Domestic airfares in Ghana rise amid higher operating costs

The cost of domestic air travel in Ghana has increased in recent years, with fares on some major routes rising amid higher operating costs across the aviation sector.

Data cited in a recent assessment shows that the average fare for a one-way flight between Accra and Tamale rose from about US$100 in 2024 to approximately US$125 in 2025, representing an increase of about 25%.

Recent ticket prices have also varied depending on the route and travel dates. A return ticket between Accra and Tamale for travel between 1 and 5 October was listed at about US$328, while a return journey between Nairobi and Mombasa over the same period was approximately US$164.

A September 2026 survey by CUTS International recorded return domestic fares from Accra to Kumasi ranging between US$275 and US$522. Accra-Tamale fares ranged from US$318 to US$565, while Accra-Takoradi fares ranged from US$379 to US$493.

Several factors contribute to the cost of operating domestic flights in Ghana. Jet fuel is estimated to account for about 30–35% of airline operating costs, while airlines also incur expenses related to aircraft leasing, maintenance, insurance, foreign exchange and imported spare parts.

Several factors contribute to the cost of operating domestic flights in Ghana. Jet fuel is estimated to account for about 30–35% of airline operating costs, while airlines also incur expenses related to aircraft leasing, maintenance, insurance, foreign exchange and imported spare parts.

Despite the higher fares, domestic passenger traffic has continued to increase. Passenger movements on domestic routes rose from 862,727 in 2024 to 903,227 in 2025. More than 523,000 domestic passengers were recorded during the first six months of 2026.

Africa World Airlines and PassionAir currently operate scheduled domestic passenger services in Ghana.

The government has also introduced measures affecting the sector, including the removal of duties and taxes on aircraft spare parts imported by domestic airlines.

Domestic airfares therefore continue to reflect a combination of operating costs, passenger demand, taxes and other charges within Ghana’s aviation market.