Ghana's AIB Marks 5 Years: How Independent Investigations Boost Aviation Safety

The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) recently celebrated its fifth anniversary.

Officials from Ghana's aviation sector used the event to emphasize the critical role of independent investigations. Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, Acting Director General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), called the process a moral and professional obligation. He stated that investigations safeguard lives and build public confidence. They also strengthen regulatory oversight in the aviation system.

The Mandate of Independence

The anniversary theme was “Enhancing Safety: The Role of Accident Investigation on Aviation Safety in Ghana.” Rev. Arthur questioned the previous arrangement. In the past, the GCAA performed both regulatory and investigative roles. He noted this setup raised concerns about true objectivity. The GCAA would investigate activities under its own oversight.

The establishment of AIB Ghana as an autonomous body in 2020 addressed this conflict. This move aligns Ghana with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. Specifically, it meets the requirements of ICAO Annex 13. This ensures functional independence between investigation and regulatory duties.

Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, described the bureau’s creation as a major milestone. It ensures objectivity, transparency, and international best practices. He stressed that accident investigation is not about assigning blame. Instead, it focuses on learning lessons to prevent future recurrence.

Five Years of Progress and Data

Over the past five years, AIB Ghana has made significant progress. Achievements include conducting comprehensive investigations and issuing safety recommendations. The bureau has also built investigative capacity. The true value of this work lies in the safety improvements that follow.

The Acting Commissioner of AIB Ghana, John M.K. Wumborti, noted the bureau's broad mandate. It investigates accidents and serious incidents within Ghana. This includes the Accra Flight Information Region (FIR). Data indicates the need for sustained safety improvement. In 2024 alone, the AIB recorded eight serious incidents and fifty-three incidents.

Contribution to the State Safety Programme

Findings from AIB investigations provide invaluable input. This data is used in Ghana’s State Safety Programme (SSP). The SSP supports safety risk management and assurance processes. This is in line with ICAO Annex 19 requirements.

Collaboration between AIB Ghana and the GCAA is complementary. The agencies work together to strengthen the SSP. Furthermore, AIB Ghana is intensifying efforts to meet global standards. The bureau is preparing for the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP). This audit is scheduled for 2026/2027.

Challenges and Future Investment

Despite its achievements, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau faces challenges. Mr. Wumborti acknowledged funding constraints. Limited access to specialized equipment is also a concern. Inadequate advanced investigation tools test the bureau’s operations.

Rev. Arthur called for continued investment. This is needed for training and capacity building. Modern investigative tools are required for emerging technologies. This includes systems like unmanned aircraft systems. The bureau also needs to develop national procedures. These procedures will assist accident victims and their families. The AIB Ghana has already produced a policy on this matter.

Mr. Nikpe called for stronger follow-up on safety recommendations. Policy decisions must be data-driven. This ensures findings translate into better regulations and training. Sustained investment and stronger inter-agency collaboration are vital. This will support a culture of safety learning across Ghana's aviation sector.

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