The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA), the professional body responsible for ensuring the safety and reliability of the air n
The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA), the professional body responsible for ensuring the safety and reliability of the air navigation systems, has announced an indefinite nationwide strike effective October 30, 2025.
The move, according to the association, follows years of unresolved grievances, managerial neglect, and unfair treatment from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
In a strongly worded statement issued in Accra and signed by Engr. David Annan Mensah, President of GhATSEA, the association expressed “deep frustration” over what it describes as the “prolonged mishandling” of its members’ legitimate welfare concerns by GCAA management.
The statement said the inaction and lack of good-faith engagement have eroded trust between the authority and its technical staff, the Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) — the backbone of Ghana’s air traffic safety system.
Fifteen-Year Grievance and Alleged Mismanagement
GhATSEA revealed that for over 15 years, it has petitioned GCAA management on persistent issues, including unfair salary administration, inequitable job placement, and unresolved welfare challenges.
Despite numerous attempts at dialogue, the association claims that no meaningful progress has been made.
The statement specifically accused the Director of Human Resource, Ebenezer Sagoe, of “mismanagement and incompetence,” which it says have contributed to a complete breakdown in morale among technical staff.
The group has, therefore, demanded his immediate removal from office and a comprehensive review of all outstanding issues to restore industrial harmony.
Management’s “Do Your Worst” Response
The association further alleged that the Acting Director-General of GCAA, Rev. Stephen Arthur, and the Acting Deputy Director-General (Technical), Theophilus Ago, have adopted a dismissive and “regimental” posture toward their concerns.
According to GhATSEA, the officials reportedly told the association to “do your worst” in response to their grievances, an attitude the association described as “brazen insensitivity” and “a clear sign of contempt” for professionals responsible for aviation safety.
“This level of disregard towards a body of highly skilled professionals whose daily work ensures the safety of Ghana’s airspace is unacceptable and intolerable,” the statement said, adding that management’s conduct reflects a “complete failure of leadership in labour relations.”
Strike to Ground Air Traffic Operations
GhATSEA’s decision to withdraw services is expected to have severe implications for both domestic and international air traffic in Ghana.
The association warned that, beginning October 30, 2025, it cannot guarantee the availability, accuracy, reliability, and serviceability of critical Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) systems.
The strike will affect major airports across the country, including Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Sunyani, Ho, and Wa airports. Among the systems that will go offline are:
VHF/HF Radios
Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS)
Air Traffic Information Service (ATIS)
VSAT/IBS Communication Links
Instrument Landing System (ILS)
Radar and ADS-B Surveillance Systems
Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network (AFTN/AMHS)
These systems are essential for guiding aircraft, maintaining radar visibility, and ensuring safe takeoffs and landings.
The shutdown will effectively render all airports unsafe for clearance of both local and international flights.
Labour Law Backing and Apology to the Public
GhATSEA indicated that its decision to strike is in line with Section 160 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which allows for industrial action after failed mediation efforts.
While the association expressed regret over the inconvenience the strike may cause to airlines and passengers, it insisted that responsibility lies squarely with GCAA management for ignoring the legitimate concerns of its technical workforce.
“We sincerely apologise to all local and international airline operators, passengers, and the travelling public for any inconvenience this may cause.
However, the responsibility for any disruptions must be placed squarely on those who have ignored the legitimate cries of the professionals who ensure the continuous safety of Ghana’s air navigation systems,” the statement read.
Appeal for Government and Public Intervention
GhATSEA called on the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Transport, the media, and all well-meaning Ghanaians to intervene to prevent the looming aviation paralysis.
The association emphasized that its members form “the backbone of air traffic safety,” and therefore deserve respect, fair treatment, and equitable working conditions.
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