The Ghana Airports Company Limited has responded to concerns raised in a recent opinion article questioning the future of Terminal 2 at the Kotoka International Airport, describing claims that the facility is obsolete as “false, misleading and misconceived.”

In a statement, the company acknowledged public interest in airport infrastructure development but stressed that decisions regarding Terminal 2 have been guided by long-term planning and operational efficiency.

GACL clarified that the construction of Terminal 3 was not premised on Terminal 2 being outdated or marked for demolition.

According to the company, a terminal planning study commissioned in 2013 informed the decision to defer renovation works on Terminal 2. At the time, Terminal 2 served as the sole international terminal, and any major reconstruction would have significantly disrupted operations.

Such disruption, GACL noted, could have led to reduced passenger experience, possible airport downgrading and substantial revenue losses.

The company explained that the 2013 study recommended the development of a connecting concourse between Terminals 2 and 3 to ensure seamless operations.

This recommendation was reinforced by the National Airport Systems Plan, also known as the Dorsch report, commissioned by the Ministry of Transport Ghana and supported by the World Bank in 2014.

The report anticipated that Terminal 2 would be refurbished and integrated with Terminal 3, making claims of its obsolescence contradictory.

GACL highlighted several upgrades undertaken at Terminal 2 over the years, including the remodelling of parts of the arrivals hall in 2013.

An extension of the terminal now accommodates key state institutions such as the Ghana Immigration Service, Narcotics Control Commission and the Bureau of National Intelligence.

“These investments demonstrate that Terminal 2 has remained functional and relevant,” the statement said.

GACL further clarified that the current works on Terminal 2 constitute “repurposing” rather than simple refurbishment.

Following the completion of Terminal 3, international operations were moved there, while domestic flights were relocated from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2.

The ongoing works aim to transform Terminal 2 into a dual-use facility capable of handling both domestic and international flights.

The company dismissed concerns that the move would undermine investments in Terminal 3, noting that international operations generate higher revenue.

Expanding international capacity through Terminal 2, GACL said, would create operational synergy with Terminal 3 and support Ghana’s ambition to become a regional aviation hub.

Responding to allegations of possible breaches of procurement and financial laws, GACL maintained that all processes have complied with the Public Financial Management Act 2016 Ghana and the Public Procurement Act 2003 Ghana.

“Due process has been strictly followed at all contracting and execution stages,” the company stated.

GACL also rejected claims that Terminal 2 lacks modern aviation systems, stating that the facility already has CCTV surveillance, baggage handling and biometric processing systems.

It added that ongoing works will introduce advanced 3D screening scanners and improved passenger facilitation processes, aligning the terminal with global standards.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and public accountability, indicating its readiness to respond to requests under the Right to Information Act Ghana.

GACL maintained that the repurposing of Terminal 2 is a strategic and cost-effective approach that maximises existing infrastructure while accommodating growing passenger traffic.

The company said the move avoids excessive capital expenditure and operational disruption, while positioning Ghana to meet its expanding aviation needs.