Aviation expert Sean Mendis has cautioned that the official renaming of Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport could result in significant indirect costs for the aviation sector.
Speaking to Citi Business News, Mendis explained that while the rebranding may seem largely symbolic, the financial impact could extend far beyond replacing airport signage.
“There will be a cost impact to it, but in terms of direct aviation impact, it will be virtually zero. 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 said.
He cited examples such as airlines needing to reprint letterheads, business cards, websites, and other materials that reference Kotoka International Airport. “Every airline with an office at the airport will now need to update all their documentation and branding to reflect the new name,” he added.
The Government of Ghana officially reverted the airport’s name on Monday, February 23, 2026, to its original designation, Accra International Airport. Authorities noted that the change restores the airport to its former and internationally recognised name.
The Ministry of Transport assured the public that operations, safety standards, and international travel arrangements will not be affected by the renaming. The airport’s ICAO code, “ACC,” will remain unchanged.
The renaming process will involve systematic updates to official documentation, statutory instruments, airport signage, digital platforms, aviation publications, and other communication materials to ensure consistency across the sector.
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