Kumasi Airport

Kumasi Airport, recently renamed in honour of the illustrious Ashanti King as Nana Agyeman Prempeh I International Airport, is the main aerial gateway to the historic heart of Ghana. Located in the famous "Garden City," it is no longer just a regional hub: following extensive reconstruction, the airport has transformed into a modern symbol of pride for the Ashanti Region. Passengers are now welcomed by a stylish new terminal that blends cutting-edge technology with traditional Ghanaian hospitality, making the start of your journey through West Africa as comfortable as possible.

Airport Features and Highlights:

The airport has evolved from a small airstrip into a modern aviation hub capable of handling international flights. The renovated complex offers travellers a completely new level of service.

• New Terminal: A spacious building opened in 2024, designed to handle up to 800,000 passengers per year and equipped with modern check-in and security systems.
• Location: The airport is located very close to the city centre (Adum district and Manhyia Palace), allowing you to reach your hotel or attractions by taxi in just 15–20 minutes.
• Comfort: Unlike the old facility, the new terminal features VIP lounges, restaurants, and comfortable air-conditioned waiting areas.
• Cultural Significance: The architecture and name of the airport pay tribute to the rich history of the Ashanti Kingdom, creating a special atmosphere upon arrival.

Below you will find contact information for Kumasi Airport (KMS). Please note that the airport is managed by Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), so many contact details are general for all airports in the country.

• Official Website: Kumasi Airport does not have its own separate website. All official information, including flight schedules, is available on the portal of the managing company, Ghana Airports Company Limited: www.gacl.com.gh.
• Helpline: For information, you can call the unified GACL contact centre at +233 (0)302 550612.
• Airport Address: Kumasi Airport, Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana.
• Email: For general inquiries, it is recommended to use the managing company's email address: info@gacl.com.gh.
• Social Media: Latest news and updates can be tracked on the official social media pages of Ghana Airports Company Limited, such as Facebook and Twitter.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly at Kumasi Airport. Staff at the check-in counter or the carrier's office will provide you with all necessary assistance.
• Customer Support Contacts: For all questions related to airport services, you may contact GACL via the general phone number or email listed above.

Getting to Kumasi Airport (KMS) from the Kumasi city centre is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres from the business and tourist districts. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly way is via local shared taxis, known as "tro-tros". They operate throughout the city, and you can find a route heading towards the airport. This option is suitable for travellers with light luggage who wish to experience the local atmosphere. However, please note that tro-tros can be crowded, and their schedules are not always precise. Trains or metro services are not currently an option in Kumasi.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services. This is the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. Both traditional taxis and international services like Uber and Bolt operate in the city. A trip from the centre (e.g., from the Adum district) will take approximately 15-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to use apps to book a car so you know the cost in advance, or negotiate the price with a regular taxi driver before the trip begins. This is the optimal choice for most tourists, especially if you have luggage.

Car Rental. If you plan to travel around the Ashanti Region and beyond, renting a car can be an excellent solution. There are several car rental agencies in Kumasi. You can pick up a car in the city and return it at the airport before departure. Please note that city traffic can be intense, so this option is best suited for experienced drivers.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own or rented vehicles, Kumasi Airport provides parking facilities. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you are leaving your car for the duration of your trip.

In general, for a trip to the airport from central Kumasi, a taxi or ride-hailing service offers the best balance of price, speed, and comfort. Travelling by "tro-tro" is an authentic experience for the most economical travellers, while car rental offers freedom of movement throughout Ghana.

Kumasi Airport (KMS) has undergone significant modernization, resulting in a more contemporary and passenger-friendly structure. Currently, the airport effectively consists of two main buildings: the old terminal, which served domestic flights, and a brand-new, multi-functional terminal designed to handle both domestic and international flights.

The New Terminal (Terminal 3) is the main hub for passenger traffic. It is a modern two-story building designed to international standards. The Departure Zone is located on the upper floor and includes check-in counters, security checkpoints, as well as comfortable waiting lounges, shops, and VIP lounges. The Arrival Zone is on the ground floor, featuring baggage claim belts and customs control. An important feature of the new terminal is the presence of aerobridges, which significantly enhance comfort when boarding and disembarking from aircraft.

Thanks to a compact and well-thought-out layout, navigating Kumasi Airport is not difficult. All zones are clearly marked with signs. Even if the old terminal is used for certain operations, it is in immediate proximity to the new one, and walking between them takes only a few minutes. Most passenger operations, especially international ones, are concentrated in the new building.

Completing all formalities generally does not take much time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. For international flights, you should allow the standard 2-3 hours to proceed through check-in, passport control, and security screening without rushing. The airport staff are friendly and always ready to help with navigation.

The history of Kumasi Airport (KMS) is a vivid example of evolution from a modest military facility to a modern international aviation hub. Its story began in 1943, when the British Royal Air Force established an airfield on this site for military needs during World War II. Located in the very heart of the Ashanti Region, in the city of Kumasi, it played an important strategic role at that time.

After the war ended, the airfield was handed over to the civil authorities of Ghana and gradually transformed into an airport for domestic flights. For many decades, it served as a key transport link connecting the resource-rich Ashanti Region with the capital, Accra, and other parts of the country. Despite its importance, the airport remained relatively small for a long time and could only handle a limited number of aircraft types.

A turning point in the airport's history was the massive reconstruction that began in the 21st century. Through several stages of modernization, immense work was carried out: a new modern terminal capable of serving up to a million passengers a year was built, along with a control tower, and the runway was significantly extended. These improvements were aimed at enabling the airport to receive large international flights.

Today, Kumasi Airport, having officially received international status, stands as a symbol of economic growth and regional ambition. This project has not only relieved pressure on the capital's Kotoka Airport but also opened new opportunities for tourism, business, and logistics in central Ghana, turning a former military airfield into a gateway to the world.

Kumasi Airport (KMS) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Inside the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat before flying, as well as shops, including Duty Free outlets, offering souvenirs, local goods, and travel essentials. This is an excellent place to buy last-minute gifts or try Ghanaian cuisine.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport provides VIP lounges where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Designated areas with power outlets for charging electronic devices are also equipped so your gadgets are ready for the flight.

The airport operates ATMs and currency exchange points, which is very convenient for arriving tourists who need to exchange money for local Cedis. To ensure passenger safety and health, there is a medical centre on the premises ready to provide first aid if necessary.

Travellers with children can use the mother and child rooms, equipped for the convenience of the youngest passengers and their parents. The airport also provides services for passengers with reduced mobility, including special assistance during boarding and disembarking, as well as an accessible environment within the terminal. It is recommended to notify your airline in advance if assistance is required.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, there are many accommodation options to suit every taste and budget in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, conference rooms or business corners may be available to hold a meeting or work while waiting for a flight, but it is best to verify this information on the official airport website or at the information desk.

Despite its relatively small size, Kumasi Airport (KMS) offers passengers several decent options for a snack or a full meal. Most establishments are concentrated in the new terminal, allowing you to spend time comfortably waiting for a flight both in the public area and after passing security control.

For those wishing to have a substantial lunch, the Kozo Restaurant and Lounge operates in the departure zone (airside). This establishment offers both international dishes and an excellent opportunity to experience the gastronomy of Ghana. Here you can order the famous Jollof rice, aromatic peanut stew, or grilled tilapia with banku. This is a wonderful choice for a leisurely dinner before departing from Kumasi.

If you are short on time, the café of the popular chain Vida e Caffè is an ideal solution. Its outlets can be found both in the general hall before screening and in the secure area. They serve quality coffee, sandwiches, fresh pastries, and refreshing beverages. This is a great option for a quick boost without straying far from the boarding gate.

Additionally, you may find small local snack bars in the airport offering more authentic and budget-friendly options. Look out for snacks such as kelewele (spicy fried plantains) or fresh fruit cuts. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain moderate: a coffee will cost approximately $3-5, and a full hot meal in a restaurant — $10-20.

Regarding dietary restrictions, many Ghanaian dishes are naturally vegetarian as they are based on rice, yams, and vegetables. It is best to verify the ingredients with staff to ensure the absence of meat. Finding certified gluten-free or Halal options might be more challenging, though the selection at Kozo Restaurant is usually broader. Opening hours are tied to the flight schedule, so most establishments are open from early morning until the last departure.

To ensure your journey through the airport in Kumasi is as comfortable as possible, it is worth considering a few practical tips. Since this is not the largest aviation hub in Ghana, orientation here is quite simple. We recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and approximately 3 hours before an international one. This buffer will allow you to pass through check-in and security without rushing.

To save time in queues, use online check-in if your airline provides such a service. Keep all necessary documents ready at the airport: passport, ticket, and visa (if required). During security screening, be prepared to present laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets for inspection, as well as liquids packed according to regulations.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your personal preferences: a window seat is ideal for those who love watching clouds and landscapes, while an aisle seat offers more freedom to move around the cabin. When preparing hand luggage, remember the main rule: the volume of liquid containers must not exceed 100 ml. All of them must be packed in one transparent bag. Always take valuables, documents, money, and necessary medications with you into the cabin.

Passengers with a transfer in Kumasi should check with the carrier in advance whether their luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight. If you are flying with different airlines, you will likely have to collect your luggage and check in again. Upon arrival in the country, you will undergo customs control. Familiarize yourself with the import regulations to avoid delays and fines, and truthfully fill out the declaration if necessary.

Simple travel hacks can help save time and money. Travelling with only hand luggage eliminates the need to wait for baggage and pay for its carriage. A pre-booked airport transfer is often cheaper than a taxi hailed on the spot. Bring an empty water bottle with you — after security check, it can be filled for free at drinking fountains.

If your flight is delayed, stay calm. First, contact your airline's counter to find out the flight status and clarify if you are entitled to compensation (for example, beverages, meals, or hotel accommodation). Monitor updates on information boards. To make the wait less tedious, download movies or books to your devices in advance and keep your power bank charged.