Story: Nana Kofi Agyeman

Pictures: Aircraftman Class 1 Ankomah RP

Ground School training for prospective Air Force pilots has commenced at the Flying Training School, Air Force Base Takoradi, on Monday 1 June 2026. The three-week course is designed to provide trainee pilots with the fundamental aeronautical knowledge required to progress into the flying phase of pilot training and prepare them for future operational aviation duties.

During the opening ceremony, the Base Commander, Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi, said the course formed part of the Chief of the Air Staff's vision of developing a highly professional, competent and mission-ready Air Force. He noted that the training reflected the Ghana Air Force's commitment to preparing the next generation of pilots capable of meeting current and emerging operational demands. He further expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, for his continuous support towards personnel development and capacity enhancement.

Air Commodore Yirenkyi urged the participants to approach the training with dedication, intellectual curiosity and perseverance, stressing that success in aviation required discipline and sustained effort. He also commended the instructors for their role in mentoring and preparing future pilots for operational responsibilities.

The Chief Ground Instructor and Acting Commanding Officer of No. 1 Transport Wing, Wing Commander Archibald Nana Opoku, explained that the programme would be delivered through lectures, guided study sessions, examinations and practical learning activities. He noted that trainees would be instructed in core aviation disciplines, including Aerodynamics, Aviation Meteorology, Air Navigation, Aircraft General Knowledge, Air Law and Aviation Regulations.

Wing Commander Opoku encouraged participants to remain focused, disciplined and committed throughout the course, stressing that a solid grounding in aviation theory is essential for safe and effective flight operations.

Present at the ceremony were the Support Group Commander, Group Captain Ransford Odenkey Abbey, Acting Flying Group Commander and Commanding Officer Air Traffic Management, Wing Commander Clara Oduro-Gyamfi, Commanding Officers of the various Wings and other officers.