Presidential Jet Severely Damaged, Still Grounded in France – Defence Minister Confirms

Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has disclosed that the country’s presidential aircraft remains grounded in France due to severe mechanical issues, including significant corrosion in the fuel tanks and engine systems.

The extended grounding of the Dassault Falcon 900EX EASy, bearing the registration 9G-EXE, has reignited public discourse over whether Ghana should acquire a new, more reliable and spacious aircraft for presidential duties. While some citizens worry about the financial implications, others believe a replacement is necessary to reduce reliance on costly aircraft rentals.

During the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, July 21, Dr. Boamah described the aircraft’s condition as critical, noting that it has been under extensive repairs since March 11, 2025. He pointed out that efforts to return the jet to Ghana have been hampered by continuous delays.

“It is disheartening that each time the presidential jet goes for maintenance or repairs, the expected return date keeps shifting,” he remarked.

“There have been timelines of two months and even two and a half months, but the aircraft is still not back in the country.”

He added that although a new return timeline has been communicated, he is hesitant to announce it due to the repeated postponements.

“We’re hopeful that the latest date provided will see the Falcon return to Ghana,” he said.

Despite the extensive damage, Dr. Boamah maintained that the jet’s condition should not be used as an excuse for the continued rental of luxurious aircraft for presidential travel.

“The reality is that the presidential jet has suffered heavy corrosion, but that alone doesn’t justify the constant leasing of high-end aircraft for presidential use,” he stressed.