The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that the microlight aircraft involved in Monday’s fatal crash in Tema was en route from Ho to Accra before losing contact with air traffic control.

In a statement, the Authority disclosed that the aircraft, with registration number 9G-ADV, was expected to land in Accra at approximately 1520 Zulu time, but its last radio communication was recorded at 1418 Z. The aircraft had two people on board at the time of the incident.

The confirmation by the GCAA provides critical aviation details that deepen understanding of the crash, particularly around the timeline of communication loss prior to impact.

Defence Ministry distances military from crash

Earlier, in an exclusive interview with The Observer Times, Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi confirmed the incident but was quick to clarify that the aircraft does not belong to the Ghana Armed Forces.

“I can confirm the crash, but it is a private microlight aircraft and not a Ghana Air Force helicopter,” he stated, while extending condolences to the families of the victims.

His remarks helped dispel initial speculation that the crash involved a military aircraft, firmly placing the incident within the domain of civil aviation.

Crash scene and emergency response

The aircraft reportedly went down within a school compound in Tema, sparking a fire upon impact. Emergency teams, including personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service, were deployed to the scene to contain the blaze and secure the area.

Eyewitnesses indicated that the aircraft burst into flames shortly after crashing, with two occupants feared dead. Authorities have since cordoned off the area as investigations commence.