Aviation professionals have urged the government and private sector to expand training opportunities and career guidance for young Ghanaians aspiring to work in the industry. While many youths dream of becoming pilots, cabin crew or other aviation staff, limited access to information and structured training makes it difficult for them to navigate entry routes.
The call was made at the Take Off Experience, an initiative founded by Ivy Hammond of Global Aviation Consult. Hammond said she created the platform after noticing that many aspiring professionals had ambitions but lacked the direction needed to pursue them. “The Take Off Experience came about because many young people have dreams, but they do not have the guidance,” she said.
Hammond hopes the initiative will inspire young people and help build a pool of Ghanaian professionals capable of filling various roles in the sector. She cautioned that aviation is not merely a glamorous industry; it demands preparation, discipline and hard work. “If aviation is what you want to go into, do not let it end at a dream. Seek the right guidance. But note that this space is not all luxury. It involves a lot of hard work, commitment and selfless service,” she added.
Former cabin crew member Josephine Smart, now retired, praised the initiative as timely and called for more programmes to expose young people to the realities of aviation careers. She noted that cabin crew recruitment is not a monthly event but occurs only when airlines need staff, and that an expansion of airlines in Ghana could create more opportunities. She also expressed hope that plans to establish a new national airline and revive Ghana Airways would generate additional employment for young professionals.
Retired Flight Lieutenant Kelly Yemoh Quarshie echoed the need for a national programme to train pilots, air traffic controllers, cabin crew and ticketing personnel. “We don't have any national programme to train professionals in the aviation space, be it pilots, air traffic controllers, cabin crew or ticketing personnel. We are not training enough,” he said, highlighting the need for a coordinated approach to aviation education, professional development and career planning.
Stakeholders say sustained investment in training and the creation of more employment opportunities will be crucial to developing Ghana’s aviation workforce. The Take Off Experience provides a platform for young people to learn about available career paths, but broader national support is essential for long‑term growth.
