The government has announced plans to take delivery of additional aircraft for the presidential fleet by November 2026, including a dedicated one for the President’s official travels.
Dr Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to President John Dramani Mahama, made the revelation in an opinion piece published on Sunday, March 15, 2026. He described the acquisition as part of ongoing efforts to bolster the country’s aviation capabilities and the retooling of the Ghana Armed Forces.
According to Dr Mahama, the new additions will enable Ghana to depend entirely on its own state-owned assets for the safe and efficient transportation of the President, eliminating the need for temporary arrangements.
The statement addresses recent public concerns and debates surrounding President Mahama’s use of a private jet owned by his brother, businessman Ibrahim Mahama, for some official trips, including international travels.
Dr Mahama clarified that such arrangements are temporary and will cease once the additional aircraft are integrated into the presidential fleet later this year.
“Plans are already underway to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capability as part of the broader retooling of the Armed Forces. By November this year, the country is expected to have additional aircraft within the presidential fleet, including one dedicated to the President’s travel,” he stated.
He further emphasized that this development would allow the state to rely fully on its own resources for presidential transportation, avoiding arrangements that have sparked public discussion.
Dr Mahama also highlighted President Mahama’s awareness of governance costs amid economic challenges faced by Ghanaians, noting that decisions on official travel are carefully balanced with the need for fiscal prudence and responsible use of public resources.
The acquisition forms part of the government’s wider reform agenda aimed at strengthening state institutions, including enhancements to aviation systems supporting governance.
The current presidential aircraft, a Falcon 900EX EZ acquired in 2009, has reportedly undergone maintenance periods, contributing to the reliance on alternative options in the interim. The impending delivery is expected to restore full self-reliance in this area as military retooling progresses.