Africa World Airlines (AWA) has taken delivery of its first Embraer E190 aircraft, strengthening the airline’s capacity as Ghana intensifies efforts to expand air connectivity and regional integration.
The aircraft, which can carry about 100 passengers, was received at the Accra International Airport on Saturday, September 19, by AWA and Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe.
Nikpe commended AWA for its contribution to air connectivity across Africa, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, saying the airline has played an important role in connecting African destinations and promoting the continent to the rest of the world.
He said the acquisition of the new aircraft would further strengthen AWA’s operations while supporting Ghana’s efforts to enhance aviation connectivity and regional integration.
The arrival comes barely three weeks after AWA relaunched its Accra-Abidjan route on August 31, 2026, as the airline steps up its regional expansion.
For AWA founder, Togbe Afede XIV, the E190 marks an important milestone in the airline’s mission to connect Africa and link the continent to the world under its vision, “Touching Africa, touching the world.”
He said the aircraft was the first of several AWA plans to acquire over the next year as the airline expands its regional operations.
Togbe Afede expressed appreciation to the Government of Ghana, the Chinese Government, AWA’s partners, including Hainan Airlines and SSNIT, as well as customers, management, staff, pilots and engineers for their support.
He also welcomed government’s recent import duty exemptions for domestic airlines and said AWA was ready to support efforts towards establishing a national carrier.
But the AWA founder said the expansion of domestic aviation was taking place against significant operational challenges.
He cited the high cost of imported inputs, foreign exchange pressures, limited passenger numbers and restricted airport operating hours as factors contributing to high operating costs and making direct connections between many African countries difficult.
Despite the challenges, Togbe Afede said AWA had remained resilient and had recorded its first dividend after 13 years of operations.
He assured stakeholders that the airline would remain committed to supporting the growth of Ghana and Africa.
The E190 arrival also comes as government pursues a broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s position as an aviation hub in West Africa.
Nikpe has previously said government is working to develop the infrastructure needed to make Ghana a hub for aviation in the sub-region.
The Minister has also been involved in government’s plans to establish a new national carrier, with the proposed airline expected to operate from Accra and support regional and international connectivity.
AWA’s fleet expansion therefore adds capacity to Ghana’s aviation sector at a time when government is seeking greater connectivity within Africa.
Togbe Afede called for continued support from customers, partners and other stakeholders as AWA pursues its ambition of “Touching Africa, touching the world.”
Source: www.kumasimail.com
