Aviation analyst Sean Mendis says Ghana’s decision to rename Kotoka International Airport back to Accra International Airport could carry significant indirect costs across the aviation industry.
Speaking to Accra-based Citi News, Mendis noted that while the change is largely symbolic and will not affect flight operations or safety, the ripple effects could be expensive.
“There will be a cost impact to it, but in terms of direct aviation impact, it will be virtually zero,” he said. “Indirectly, the cost impact of a name change can run into hundreds of millions of dollars because it is not just the cost of changing it yourself, but also everybody else who has a link with the airport.”
He pointed to airlines and businesses that will need to update letterheads, business cards, websites and other materials referencing Kotoka International Airport.
The government announced the renaming on Monday, saying it was appropriate to restore the airport’s original and internationally recognized name. The Transport Ministry emphasized that the change will not disrupt operations, safety standards or international travel.
Officials noted that the airport’s code “ACC” has remained unchanged in International Civil Aviation Organisation records. The renaming process will include updates to signage, statutory documents, digital platforms and aviation publications.
