Africa World Airlines (AWA) has embarked on a significant mission to launch direct flights between Accra and Ouagadougou.
With the first flight scheduled for June 3, 2025, this new route is poised to close a critical gap in regional air travel, offering a vital link between two neighbouring nations and signaling a new chapter in African regional integration.
President John Dramani Mahama’s declaration envisioning a direct air link between Accra and Ouagadougou sparked this initiative to strengthen ties between the two nations.
With Africa World Airlines (AWA) as a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and a proven track record on key African routes—including Lagos, Abuja, Monrovia, Abidjan, and Freetown—AWA was the natural choice to bring this vision to life. And they have stepped up, with a delegation recently visiting Ouagadougou to finalize preparations for the much-anticipated service.
A Journey of Preparation: Laying the Groundwork for the Game-Changing Route
The critical phase of preparation was marked by a recent visit to Ouagadougou by a high-level delegation from Africa World Airlines, headed by Jonathan K. Appiah, the Head of Commercial. Alongside him were Josephine Ahadjie, the Head of Aviation Security; Gloria Vander-Pallen, the Service Quality Manager; and Patrick Gyamena, the Chief Flight Dispatcher.
Their mission was to familiarize themselves with the local environment, meet key stakeholders, and finalize preparations for the imminent launch of direct flights between Accra and Ouagadougou.
The team’s visit was a vital step in ensuring that the planned commercial flights, which will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, are successful, offering passengers a convenient, fast alternative to the current cumbersome overland journey. The route’s introduction will save travellers from the gruelling hours of travel by road, often fraught with delays, unpredictable conditions, and long waits at border checkpoints.
The team met with several critical partners, including the Head of Ghana Missions, the Ghanaian community in Ouagadougou, the Agence Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ANAC), and the Ministry of Transport to initiate the acquisition of flying permits. With the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the two countries, Africa World Airlines is well positioned to begin its operations without any regulatory hurdles, signaling safer and more efficient air travel. The team also engaged with the Airport Authorities and local travel agents, all of whom expressed overwhelming support for the new route.
An End to the Roadblocks: AWA’s Plan to Transform Regional Travel
Currently, the overland journey between Accra and Ouagadougou is nothing short of a nightmare for passengers. Depending on traffic and border conditions, the trip can take up to 12 hours, sometimes more. Travelers are forced to drive across the border, enduring endless hours on roads that are often in disrepair or clogged with traffic. For many, this journey is not only exhausting but fraught with uncertainty and stress.
Africa World Airlines intends to change all that. By offering a direct flight, AWA will drastically reduce travel time, allowing passengers to complete the journey in less than two hours. This new flight service not only facilitates faster, more efficient travel but also significantly boosts economic cooperation between the two countries, driving trade, tourism, and cross-border collaborations between the leaders of the two nations.
Building Stronger Bonds: AWA’s Commitment to Ghana-Burkina Faso Relations
In discussions with key stakeholders, it became clear that this new route was much more than just a transportation solution. Mr. Alhassan Abdulai Haruna, the Acting Head of the Ghana Mission in Burkina Faso, highlighted the immense potential for enhanced trade between the two countries. Burkina Faso, a landlocked nation, relies heavily on imports, and Ghana stands as a crucial trading partner. Direct flights will streamline the movement of goods, making it easier for businesses to thrive and for individuals to access essential services.
Daouda Abdoul Aziz W. A. Amoussa, Director General of Burkina Faso’s Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC), echoed these sentiments, offering his full backing and commitment to ensure the successful operation of the new service.
Meanwhile, Bertrand Toe, the Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Mobility, assured his full support in facilitating the launch, ensuring that all logistical and regulatory processes would be streamlined for a smooth introduction.
The Future of African Aviation Has Never Looked Brighter
In an exclusive interview, Jonathan Appiah, Head of Commercial for Africa World Airlines, expressed confidence in the viability of the new route, noting the lack of direct flights between Accra and Ouagadougou. He added that, “Africa World Airlines has a proven track record of connecting African cities. We know the region well, and our commitment to safety and efficiency is unmatched. We are excited to offer this much-needed service to the people of both Ghana and Burkina Faso.”
His confidence in the success of the new route is grounded in AWA’s experience in the African aviation sector. He emphasized that the airline is ready to meet the demands of the route, and that passengers should expect a seamless travel experience. He also took the opportunity to thank Africa World Airlines’ loyal customers, saying, “We are deeply grateful for the support our passengers have shown over the years. We are committed to providing them with the best possible service and bringing Africa closer together.”
Celebrating a New Beginning: AWA’s Commitment to Regional Unity
As the delegation wrapped up its successful trip to Ouagadougou, they left behind more than just plans for a new route. They left a promise: a promise that Africa World Airlines is committed to making Africa a more connected, integrated continent. The AWA team presented miniature aircraft models to key stakeholders as a gesture of gratitude for their unwavering support.
This new service is not just a victory for air travel; it is a symbol of what can be achieved when African nations come together. By making direct flights a reality, AWA is proving that connectivity within Africa doesn’t have to be a distant dream; it’s something that can be achieved today, starting with Ghana and Burkina Faso.
As June 3, 2025, approaches, the launch of the Accra-Ouagadougou flight will signify the dawn of a new age-defining moment in Africa’s aviation history, not just for AWA but for the entire continent. With this route, AWA is showing the world that Africa’s potential is limitless, and this is just the start of something bigger.