PassionAir flight OP 149 encounters severe turbulence after takeoff

Domestic airline PassionAir has confirmed that its flight OP 149 from Kumasi to Accra experienced severe turbulence on November 3, 2026. The incident, which occurred shortly after the aircraft departed, left passengers shaken as the plane encountered what the airline described as unexpected weather conditions. Despite the intensity of the event, the airline maintained that safety protocols were followed to ensure the aircraft remained stable.

Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the former Member of Parliament for Bantama and former Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provided a detailed account of the ordeal. According to Dr. Kokofu, the aircraft was approximately three minutes into its journey when a loud bang was heard, followed immediately by a sensation of a "free fall." He noted that the experience was deeply traumatizing for those on board, including other notable figures such as the entertainer Lil Win and a passenger identified as Amoakohene.

In an official response, PassionAir acknowledged the severe turbulence and the resulting discomfort for those on board. The airline issued an apology to its passengers, explaining that the flight encountered sudden weather changes that were not previously anticipated. Management emphasized that the crew was trained to handle such occurrences and that the commitment to passenger safety remains their highest priority.

While the flight was completed, the event sparked discussions regarding the impact of volatile weather on domestic air travel. No injuries were reported, but the psychological impact on the passengers was significant. The airline has reassured the public that its fleet undergoes regular maintenance and that safety remains the hallmark of its operations.