The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) has announced plans to embark on an indefinite industrial action effective October 30, 2025, over what it describes as years of neglect and mishandling of its grievances by the management of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
In a strongly worded statement, the Association said its patience has been “stretched beyond measure,” accusing the GCAA leadership of failing to address critical issues affecting the welfare, motivation, and morale of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs) — the technical professionals responsible for maintaining the country’s aviation safety systems.
According to GhATSEA, the union has, over the past 15 years, petitioned and engaged the GCAA on matters relating to unfair salary administration, inequitable job placement, and unresolved welfare challenges, but these concerns have been consistently ignored or mishandled.
The Association singled out the Director of Human Resources, Mr. Ebenezer Sagoe, alleging that his continued presence in office has contributed significantly to the erosion of confidence among staff. It is therefore demanding his immediate removal, alongside a comprehensive review and resolution of all outstanding issues.
“Our numerous appeals for fair treatment and structural correction have fallen on deaf ears, leaving ATSEPs across all regional airports feeling betrayed and unappreciated for their critical role in maintaining aviation safety,” the statement read.
GhATSEA also expressed disappointment in the posture of the Acting Director-General, Rev. Stephen Arthur, and the Acting Deputy Director-General (Technical), Mr. Theophilus Ago, claiming the two have responded to legitimate staff concerns with a “do your worse” attitude — a move the Association described as “deeply troubling and regimental.”
The group warned that its planned strike is being undertaken in full compliance with Section 160 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) and will remain in force until all grievances are resolved.
“This action, though regrettable, is the direct consequence of management’s neglect and lack of good-faith engagement,” the Association stated.
While apologising to local and international airline operators, passengers, and the travelling public for the anticipated disruptions, GhATSEA said the responsibility for any inconvenience “rests squarely with those who have ignored the legitimate cries of the professionals who ensure the safety and reliability of Ghana’s air navigation systems.”
The Association has called on the media, civil society, and all well-meaning Ghanaians to support its call for justice, accountability, and respect for the rights of technical staff who form the backbone of Ghana’s air traffic safety infrastructure.
A copy of the modalities for the planned industrial action, the statement added, has been attached for public reference.
