Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, has stated that the government’s assessment of Ghana’s presidential aircraft needs will prioritise reliability and long-haul capability over passenger capacity.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Genfi said while the Falcon 900EX aircraft currently used for presidential travels accommodates fewer people than some previous models, the key focus is ensuring safety, endurance, and operational efficiency.
“If you want to do an assessment of the need for a presidential air asset, you consider a lot of factors. Capacity may not be the primary determinant. The reliability of the aircraft and its capacity to go a long haul without having to stop midway for refuelling are things we are looking at,” he explained.
The Deputy Minister’s comments come amid concerns over the prolonged repair of Ghana’s presidential jet, which has been grounded in France for several months. The Falcon 900EX was initially sent for maintenance after developing a corroded fuel tank, but further technical faults have delayed its return.
Briefing Parliament earlier this week, Genfi confirmed that while the initial issue had been resolved, new complications were discovered during repair works, prompting the government to conduct a broader review of the Air Force’s entire fleet.
He said the Defence Ministry is evaluating the operational needs of the Ghana Air Force to determine which aircraft should be repaired, replaced, or upgraded.
“We are assessing our air assets to ensure we have safe, reliable and effective aircraft for both military and presidential duties,” Genfi said, adding that any decision on new acquisitions will be guided by national interest and fiscal responsibility.
The Falcon 900EX, acquired in 2010, has been a subject of public debate over cost, maintenance, and presidential use. The government has not yet confirmed when the aircraft will return to service.