Potential Contribution of Tamale International Airport to the Development of Northern Ghana

Abstract

Empirical analysis of the socio-economic benefits and challenges of air transport in Ghana has not received much attention. This is in spite of the fact that policy makers and aviation operators need such analysis to implement regional development initiatives. The general objective of this study, therefore, is to examine the economic effects and challenges of air transport in Ghana, with the feasibility of the proposed development of the Tamale Airport to International status as the prime focus. Information is derived from the literature, work place counts and resource persons. A major finding of the study is that air transport contributes immensely to economic growth and poverty alleviation--through direct and indirect employment and through tax revenue generation (from its catalytic impact on other industries like tourism). It is argued that developing Tamale Airport must be considered as a complete business environment and a leading West African main Airport, by virtue of its strategic location. This is crucial to the growth prospects of the three regions of Northern Ghana expressed in the establishment of the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA).