The aircraft that crashed in Tema
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The family of the two victims of the microlight aircraft crash in Tema Community 1 on March 16, has requested the general public to allow them space to mourn their loss. 

This is contained in a press release issued by the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfuor on March 21 on behalf of the family.

“With a heavy heart of loss, the Wettey and Donkor families announce the passing of our beloved sons, Captain Frank Amoanyi Donkor and Elijah Ofori Donkor, following the tragic microlight aircraft crash at Tema Community 1 on March 16, 2026. Frank and Elijah were not just sons of Elder & Mrs Frank Donkor; they were bright lights within our families, full of promise, warmth and life,” the release indicated.

It added that, “As we go through this challenging moment, we humbly appeal to the public, the media and all well-wishers to kindly grant our families the space and privacy to grieve. This is an extremely difficult time for us, and we deeply appreciate your understanding.

We are grateful for the love, prayers and support shown to us so far. Details of the final funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.”

The family said, “Their sudden departure is one we are still struggling to come to terms with. Yet, even in our grief, we draw strength from the Word of God, which reminds us of His sovereignty in all things: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” — Job 1:21″

They commended the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and other state agencies for the manner the aftermath of the accident was handled.

“In this moment of profound grief, we wish to commend the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, the Ghana National Fire Service, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) and other state agencies for their professionalism, swift response and support during this unfortunate incident. Their efforts are deeply appreciated,” the family stated.

On March 16, 3news broke the news that a microlight aircraft had crashed in Tema.

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) later confirmed that the aircraft with registration number 9GADV crashed in Tema enroute from Ho.

This was contained in a press release issued the GCAA.

“The aircraft was flying from Ho to Accra, estimating Accra at 1520 Z. The last contact with the aircraft on radio was 1418 Z. There were two persons on board. Further details will be provided in due course,” the GCAA said.

The Deputy Minister of Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi later clarified that the aircraft that crashed in Tema Community 17 on March 16, does not belong to the Ghana Armed Forces.

This is contained in a post he made on social media.

“We have received reports of a fatal crash involving a privately owned microlight aircraft at Tema Community 1 this afternoon. We wish to clarify that the aircraft is not owned by the Ghana Armed Forces,” he wrote.

The Deputy Minister used the post to commiserate with the families of the victims.

“We pray for the souls of the departed and extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families,” Mr Genfi stated.