Ghana Airports Company Limited Enhances Passenger Experience with New Advanced Screening Equipment at Accra International Airport

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has announced a significant upgrade to security protocols at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra. Effective July 11, 2026, new advanced security screening equipment has been deployed at Terminals 2 and 3, marking a major shift in how passengers are processed. This initiative is designed to bolster aviation security while simultaneously improving the travel experience by reducing wait times and streamlining the mandatory checks for departing and arriving travelers.

Under the new screening regime, passengers are no longer required to remove laptops and other large electronic devices from their cabin baggage. Furthermore, the days of removing shoes and belts at security checkpoints are largely over, as travelers can now keep these items on unless they are specifically flagged for secondary screening based on security assessments. The upgrade also extends to liquids, aerosols, and gels, which can now remain inside carry-on bags. However, GACL emphasized that the international restriction of 100 millilitres per container remains strictly in effect to ensure safety standards are not compromised.

A key feature of the new installation is the Automatic Tray Return System (ATRS). This technology is expected to significantly expedite the screening procedure by automatically returning trays to the start of the line once passengers have cleared the checkpoint, thereby reducing manual handling and accelerating the repacking process. To ensure a smooth transition, the GACL indicated that the technology will be introduced in phases and will operate alongside existing screening equipment. This phased approach allows staff and passengers to adapt to the new workflow without disrupting airport operations.

This latest modernization effort is part of a broader strategic framework by the GACL to enhance airport operations and strengthen Ghana's aviation security infrastructure. It follows the successful implementation of the Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) system in August 2025, which allows security agencies to pre-screen passenger data before travel. By integrating these advanced technologies, the GACL aims to position Accra International Airport as a leading hub in West Africa, balancing high-level security with a seamless passenger journey.