GACL Reclaims Prime Airport Lands from McDan Group After Court Victory
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has successfully reclaimed over 16 acres of valuable airport land from subsidiaries of the McDan Group of Companies, following a decisive court ruling in its favour. This marks a major legal and operational victory for the state-owned company in its efforts to recover strategic national assets.
The Accra High Court delivered its ruling on May 6, 2025, granting GACL full re-entry and possession of two plots of land measuring approximately 10.63 acres and 5.66 acres. These parcels are located adjacent to and opposite the Action Chapel International near Kotoka International Airport (KIA). The lands were previously occupied by McDan Shipping Company and Airport Logistics Limited, both operating under the McDan Group since 2012.
The legal dispute stemmed from allegations by GACL of continuous breaches of lease agreements and non-payment of ground rent by the McDan subsidiaries. In February 2025, GACL filed a writ and a statement of claim, demanding possession of the lands, the payment of $26,296 in accrued ground rent, and a perpetual injunction to bar the companies from further interference with the properties.
After filing for summary judgment on the basis that the defendants had no valid defense, the court awarded all reliefs sought by GACL. The ruling also directed the defendants to pay GH¢50,000 in legal costs.
This land repossession comes after earlier challenges involving McDan Aviation. In December 2024, McDan’s operations at Terminal 1 of the Kotoka International Airport were suspended due to unpaid financial obligations. Though those debts were later cleared, the land dispute persisted until this court ruling brought finality to the matter.
Management of GACL has welcomed the court’s judgment as a major milestone in protecting state-owned resources. A source within the company stated:
“The repossession of these lands not only safeguards millions of dollars’ worth of state assets but also reinforces our commitment to accountability and lawful management of public property.”
The successful litigation has been attributed to the diligent work of GACL’s Legal Department and the leadership of Managing Director Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, who has been instrumental in championing asset recovery and responsible stewardship.
Looking ahead GACL is expected to announce new development plans for the reclaimed lands. These may include aviation infrastructure expansion or public-private partnerships aimed at boosting revenue generation and improving airport services.
This development signals GACL’s renewed commitment to protecting public assets, enforcing lease agreements and strengthening the financial and operational health of Ghana’s airport infrastructure.