The committee investigating the August 6, 2025, Ghana Air Force helicopter crash that killed eight people, including senior government officials, has called for immediate modernisation of the Air Force fleet and comprehensive safety reforms to prevent similar tragedies.
Presenting the findings on Tuesday, November 11, Captain (Rtd) Paul Forjoe, who led the investigative team, stressed the need for the Ghana Air Force to acquire modern aircraft fitted with terrain avoidance warning systems, advanced navigation tools, and audiovisual-capable flight data and voice recorders.
He further recommended that the Air Force invest in recurrent pilot training using certified simulators and aviation experts, as well as develop en route navigational aids, particularly for flights over remote or mountainous areas.
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“There is a definite need to modernise the fleet of the Ghana Air Force. Implementing these safety recommendations will help prevent the recurrence of future accidents,” Captain Forjoe said.
“The August 6 crash was an unfortunate, weather-related incident, but investing in modern technology and training will significantly enhance operational safety.”
Key Safety Recommendations
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Acquire modern aircraft equipped with terrain avoidance and advanced navigation systems.
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Install cockpit voice recorders and audiovisual flight data recorders on all aircraft.
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Invest in certified simulators and regular pilot retraining programs.
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Develop en route navigational aids, especially in remote and high-risk areas.
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Establish a national flight data monitoring and tracking system.
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Modernise ground support and maintenance equipment to improve operational reliability.
The investigative committee was established soon after the crash to determine its causes and propose preventive measures. Its findings address technical, operational, and environmental factors that contributed to the disaster.
Government sources confirmed that the full report and recommendations will be made public at an official press briefing on Tuesday, November 11.
Background
The fatal crash involved a Harbin Z-9EH military helicopter (tail number GHF 631) operated by the Ghana Air Force. The aircraft departed Accra at 9:12 a.m. on August 6, 2025, en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region for an anti-illegal mining operation. It lost radar contact and crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District.
All eight passengers and crew on board were killed, including:
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Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
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Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
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Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
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Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice-Chair
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Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
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Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
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Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu
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Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
The investigation was conducted under the supervision of National Security Coordinator Abdul-Osman Razak, in collaboration with the Ghana Air Force, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), and international aviation experts.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem