Accra Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

Accra, the capital of Ghana, is primarily served by a single major international airport that acts as one of West Africa’s most important aviation gateways. While smaller airstrips exist for domestic and specialised services, virtually all international and domestic commercial passenger traffic flows through its main hub.

This guide explains every airport serving Accra, including IATA codes, terminal layouts, and clear, plain-English explanations of how to get to and from each one.

Kotoka International Airport (ACC)

Overview: Kotoka International Airport (IATA: ACC) is Ghana’s main international airport and the primary hub for the country’s airlines. Located just 10 km (6 miles) northeast of central Accra, its close proximity to the city centre makes it one of the most conveniently located major airports in Africa.

Terminals:

• Terminal 3 (Main International and Domestic Terminal): Opened in 2018, this modern terminal handles all international flights and most domestic services. It features multiple check-in islands, jet bridges, and a wide range of passenger facilities.
• Terminal 2 (Regional and Limited Domestic): The older terminal now serves some regional carriers and selected domestic flights, particularly smaller aircraft. It is within walking distance of Terminal 3.

Note: Most passengers will use Terminal 3, but always confirm your terminal with your airline before travelling.

Getting to and from Kotoka International Airport (ACC):

• Official Airport Taxis:
  The most straightforward and widely used option. After exiting the arrivals hall, proceed to the official taxi dispatch booth where fares are fixed based on destination zones such as Osu, Cantonments, Airport Residential Area, and Accra Central. A trip to central Accra typically costs GHS 70–120 and takes 15–30 minutes depending on traffic.
• Ride-hailing (Uber and Bolt):
  Uber and Bolt operate efficiently in Accra and are often cheaper than official taxis. Pickup is from designated areas outside the terminal — follow signage or check the app carefully after collecting your bags.
• Hotel Shuttles:
  Many mid-range and high-end hotels offer airport shuttle services, either complimentary or paid. These should be arranged in advance with your accommodation.
• Car Rental:
  International and local rental companies have desks inside Terminal 3. Renting a car offers flexibility but requires confidence due to Accra’s busy and dynamic traffic conditions.
• Public Transport (Trotros and Buses) – For Experienced Travellers:
  For very low cost, shared minibuses and city buses operate along the Airport By-Pass Road. This option is not recommended for first-time visitors or those travelling with heavy luggage.

Best for: All international travellers and most domestic passengers visiting Accra or connecting to other parts of Ghana and West Africa.

Other Aviation Facilities in Accra

Ghana Air Force Base and VIP Wing: The airport shares its runways with a Ghana Air Force base, and a separate VIP terminal handles government and state flights.

Domestic and Charter Operations: Scheduled domestic flights to cities such as Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi operate mainly from Terminals 3 and 2. Some charter and general aviation flights operate from dedicated areas of the airport.

Which Accra Airport Should You Choose?

For all commercial airline passengers, the choice is simple: Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is the only airport serving scheduled passenger flights in Accra.

If you are arriving on a private charter or state flight, your operator may use the VIP or general aviation facilities, but these are not relevant for standard airline travellers.

Always check that your ticket lists “ACC” as your arrival airport when booking flights to Accra.

Important Considerations for Kotoka International Airport (ACC)

International to International Transfers:
ACC is a growing regional hub. Passengers transiting between international flights generally remain airside but must pass through a security screening before re-entering the departures area.

International to Domestic Connections:
Passengers must clear immigration, collect baggage, pass customs, and then re-check for domestic flights. Allow at least 2.5 hours for this process to avoid missed connections.

Visa and Entry Requirements:
Many nationalities require a visa to enter Ghana. Check requirements well in advance. While eVisas and visas on arrival are available for some travellers, pre-arranged visas are strongly recommended.

Health Requirements:
A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Ghana and is checked upon arrival.

Facilities:
Terminal 3 offers a good selection of restaurants, cafés, duty-free shopping, currency exchange, ATMs, free (limited) WiFi, and paid-access lounges, including the Celebrity Lounge.

Arrival and Departure Tips:
Expect an initial security screening before entering the terminal for departures. For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure as queues can be lengthy during peak periods.

Safety and Transport:
Always use official airport taxis, verified ride-hailing apps, or pre-arranged hotel transfers. Avoid unauthorized individuals offering transport services inside or outside the terminal.

Bottom line: Kotoka International Airport’s close proximity to the city is one of its greatest advantages. With your visa, Yellow Fever certificate, and transport arranged in advance, arriving in Accra is generally smooth and efficient.