Headlines for Travel and Tourism News 06/02/25
Kenya Airways Expands Operations with Boeing 787 Dreamliner on Accra Route
Government urged to increase investment in Tourism Sector
Viking Unveils 2026-2027 World Cruise Itineraries
The Chief Executive Officer of We-Connect Group, Mr. Victor Ahinasi, has called on the government to increase investment in Ghana’s tourism sector to attract diaspora visitors and generate revenue for national development.
In an interview with the Ghanaian Times, he emphasized the importance of preserving and marketing Ghana’s rich history and culture, particularly colonial-era castles and historic sites, to boost the economy. Ahinasi urged the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture to prioritize policies that protect Ghana’s cultural heritage.
He warned that neglecting these historical sites could erode the nation’s identity and revenue potential.
Ahinasi also cited Rwanda’s success in leveraging tourism for national development as a model for Ghana, suggesting that with the right policies and investment, Ghana could increase foreign exchange earnings. He proposed creating a structured system to manage and market tourist sites effectively.
Additionally, he expressed concerns about fraudulent travel agents and urged the public to be cautious, noting that visa issuance is the responsibility of embassies, not travel agencies. He called for stricter regulation of the travel industry to protect legitimate businesses.
Kenya Airways will introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Nairobi-Accra route in June 2024, aligning with the summer travel season.
The airline, which currently operates 10 weekly flights to Accra, will deploy the wide-body aircraft four times per week to boost capacity. Group Chief Executive Officer Allan Kilavuka emphasized the importance of Ghana as a key market, stating that the Dreamliner will enhance passenger experience and improve operational efficiency.
In addition to Accra, Kenya Airways services Freetown, Monrovia, and Dakar and is exploring the possibility of operating flights to Kumasi International Airport. Kilavuka noted that the airline views Ghana’s aviation market favorably and is considering Kumasi as part of its future expansion plans.
Kumasi International Airport has undergone a major transformation, positioning itself as a viable option for international airlines.
The airport now features a state-of-the-art terminal capable of handling over 800,000 passengers annually, with advanced passenger processing systems and navigation aids. Jet A1 aviation fuel is also readily available.
The current 1,994-meter runway can accommodate aircraft such as the A319, A320, and Boeing 737.
However, plans are in place to extend the runway to over 2,300 meters, enabling the airport to handle larger aircraft and increasing its potential as a regional aviation hub.
International News
Viking has announced its new 2026-2027 World Cruise itineraries, including the 170-day Viking World Voyage III, which will visit 41 countries with 82 guided tours and overnight stays in 18 cities.
The Viking Sky will set sail from Fort Lauderdale on December 22, 2026, traveling across six continents before concluding in Stockholm on June 10, 2027. The itinerary includes stops in Hawaii, the South Pacific, Australia, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Shorter options include a 153-day voyage from Los Angeles to Stockholm, a 142-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to London, and a 125-day journey from Los Angeles to London. Key destinations include Sydney, Zanzibar, Cape Town, Lagos, Accra, and Takoradi. Guests will enjoy onboard lectures, entertainment, and cultural excursions.
Viking is offering North American travelers savings of over $60,000 per couple, including free business class airfare, shore excursion credits, and complimentary beverage packages, valid through March 31, 2025. Returning guests receive additional benefits, including a reduced deposit of 10 percent.
Source : Joycelyn Marigold & Lydia Afful – Africa Hospitality & Holiday News
