Ghana Air Traffic Safety Engineers Threaten Strike, Risking Airspace Operations

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is facing a critical threat of industrial action from its technical personnel. The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) has issued a formal strike notice. This action cites years of unresolved labor and welfare issues. The association warned that a failure to act could severely compromise Ghana airspace operations safety.

GhATSEA’s seven-day notice was served in compliance with the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651). The deadline for resolution is set for January 15, 2026. If the demands are not met, members will withdraw their services. This withdrawal would involve the air traffic safety engineers who maintain vital air navigation systems.

Core of the Dispute: Unresolved HR Issues

The central grievance revolves around alleged inequities in job placement and salary administration. These problems reportedly date back to 2012. GhATSEA claims that staff recruited with HND and BSc qualifications were placed on inappropriate grades. The association argues this has created a decade-long pattern of unfairness.

The association highlights that these anomalies have required repeated interventions. Successive GCAA Director-Generals had to correct the issues. GhATSEA argues this shows a failure of routine human resource processes. The association has specifically pointed to the actions of the current Director of Human Resources, Mr. Ebenezer Sagoe. They accuse him of acting only when compelled by higher authority.

Salary Distortions and Inequities

Beyond initial placement, GhATSEA also raised concerns about salary distortions. These include extremely narrow salary gaps between certain staff grades. Conversely, wide disparities exist between other levels. The association reported cases where junior officers earn more than colleagues recruited earlier at the same or higher levels.

GhATSEA stated that the Director of Human Resources acts only when compelled by top management. This pattern, they argue, has led to recurring GCAA labour disputes. The association is demanding urgent and fair action from the GCAA Board. They believe this is the only way to restore institutional harmony.

Operational and Safety Implications

A strike by the Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association would have immediate and serious consequences. These personnel, known as Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs), are the backbone of air traffic safety. They are responsible for maintaining the complex Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS/ATM) systems.

These CNS/ATM systems are essential for air traffic management and flight safety. They include radar, radio communication equipment, and navigation aids. Without ATSEPs, the integrity and reliability of this infrastructure cannot be guaranteed.

If these air traffic safety engineers lay down their tools, the CNS/ATM systems could become non-operational. This scenario would effectively render air travel unsafe across all major airports in Ghana. GhATSEA stresses that the dispute is not just a labor concern. It directly touches upon national safety and operational efficiency.

The potential disruption is significant for both domestic and international carriers. Airlines operating in West Africa Aviation would face extensive delays and cancellations. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasizes the critical role of reliable air navigation services globally. Such a disruption would affect the entire regional air travel network.

History of Failed Resolutions

This latest threat follows a similar planned industrial action in October 2025. GhATSEA suspended that strike after the GCAA Board directed management to engage in negotiations. The association agreed to the suspension based on assurances of good-faith discussions.

However, GhATSEA reported that the subsequent meeting with management failed. It produced no agreement or indication of commitment to resolve the outstanding matters. The association now feels compelled to proceed with the strike notice.

A further point of contention is the GCAA’s inconsistent position on the workers' status. GhATSEA noted that in a 2016 dispute, GCAA management argued the members were non-essential workers. In the current dispute, management is reportedly claiming they are essential workers. This reversal is viewed by the association as a tactic to undermine their right to industrial action. This contradiction raises serious questions about the GCAA's credibility in labor relations.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets global standards for air navigation safety. The stability of the technical workforce is key to meeting these standards. GhATSEA’s President, Engr. David Annan Mensah, has appealed to the GCAA Board for decisive intervention. The goal is to restore confidence and prevent an escalation that would disrupt aviation services.

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