Disruption of check-in systems at Terminal 3 due to fibre optic failure-GACL

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has clarified the cause of a disruption in check-in systems at Terminal 3, Kotoka International Airport (KIA), which occurred on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. The disruption, which began at approximately 7:51 pm and lasted for about an hour, was due to a fibre optic system failure.

In an official statement, GACL explained that the root cause of the disruption was excavation works being undertaken by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL). These works impacted the fibre path of Telecel Ghana Limited between Cantonments and Teshie Nungua, leading to the system failure at the airport.

“Contrary to some speculations, the disruption was not related to a power outage,” the statement emphasized, dispelling any misconceptions about the cause of the incident.

The system failure resulted in delays in passenger processing and airline turn-around times. Passengers were promptly notified of the situation, with regular updates provided through intermittent announcements. Despite the initial challenges, GACL managed the situation efficiently using a backup internet service, allowing airlines to eventually depart for their respective destinations.

GACL extended its sincere apologies to passengers affected by the downtime, assuring them of its commitment to providing seamless facilitation through all GACL-operated airports. The company emphasized its dedication to preventing similar occurrences in the future and ensuring reliable service.

“Management extends its sincere apologies to passengers who were affected by the downtime and wishes to assure them of its commitment to provide a seamless facilitation through all GACL operated airports,” the statement concluded.

The incident highlights the critical importance of infrastructure coordination and the potential impacts of utility works on essential services. GACL’s swift response and effective communication helped mitigate the disruption, underscoring their readiness to handle unexpected challenges while maintaining service standards at one of West Africa’s busiest airports.