The debut London Gatwick to Kumasi direct flight has successfully landed. 

Today, Friday, December 6, 2024, Ethiopian Airlines flight ETH8719 arrived at the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi, having taken off from Gatwick in London. This marks the very first international flight to land in Kumasi after the domestic airport was remodelled.

In videos on social media, spectators were seen close to the landing site witnessing the historical landing which occured after 10 AM.

Amidst drumming and celebration, traditional rulers were, also, at the airport to receive the travellers.

The flight was initially scheduled for Tuesday, December 3. However, it was postponed due to short notice, according to Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL).

A return journey is scheduled for Sunday, December 15.

The London to Kumasi direct flight is a collaboration between the GACL and Ethiopian Airlines, and, according to official communication, will inform subsequent passenger flights. 

The initiative brings relief to travellers to Kumasi who previously had to land in Accra and continue by road on a 5-hour journey or book a domestic flight to achieve the same purpose.