Ghana’s Presidential Jet Severely Corroded and Still Grounded in France – Omane Boamah

Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah has revealed that Ghana’s presidential aircraft remains out of service in France due to extensive technical issues, including serious corrosion in its fuel tanks and engine parts.

Speaking during the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 21, Dr. Boamah described the Dassault Falcon 900EX EASy (9G-EXE) as being in critical condition, noting that repairs have been ongoing since March 11, 2025. The aircraft’s return has been delayed multiple times by technicians, with no definite arrival date yet confirmed.

“Whenever the jet goes for servicing, the return date keeps changing. It’s still grounded,” he lamented.

Though another projected return date has been set, the Minister declined to disclose it publicly, citing past failures to meet promised deadlines.

Dr. Boamah stressed that while the jet’s condition is worrying, it does not justify the persistent hiring of luxury aircraft for presidential travel. The situation has sparked renewed public debate about whether Ghana should invest in a modern, reliable presidential aircraft.

“Yes, the jet is heavily corroded, but that shouldn’t be used to justify frequent rental of luxurious jets,” he said.

The Falcon 900EX has been a key part of Ghana’s presidential fleet, but its continued grounding raises concerns over both security and cost, with calls growing louder for a long-term solution.