PassionAir clarifies severe turbulence on flight OP 149 from Kumasi

PassionAir has released an official statement to address concerns regarding a mid-air incident on flight OP 149, which traveled from Kumasi to Accra on Sunday, November 3, 2026. The airline confirmed that the aircraft encountered severe turbulence during the journey, leading to significant distress among the passengers on board. The incident gained widespread public attention due to the presence of several high-profile individuals on the flight, including the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.

According to the airline, the turbulence was triggered by sudden and unexpected adverse weather conditions encountered along the flight path. PassionAir was quick to clarify that the event was entirely weather-related and was not the result of any mechanical failure or technical fault with the aircraft. The official statement aimed to provide an accurate account of the experience, responding to reports that had characterized the encounter as a near-crash situation.

Among the notable passengers who experienced the turbulent flight were the popular Ghanaian actor Kwadwo Nkansah, commonly known as LilWin, and Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the former Member of Parliament for Bantama. The airline's management emphasized that the flight crew followed standard safety procedures to manage the situation and ensure the safety of everyone on board despite the challenging atmospheric environment.

In its concluding remarks, PassionAir reassured the traveling public of its ongoing commitment to safety and operational excellence. The airline noted that while severe turbulence can be a distressing experience for passengers, it is a known atmospheric phenomenon that pilots are professionally trained to navigate. The flight eventually reached its destination, and the airline continues to monitor weather patterns closely to mitigate the impact of adverse conditions on its regional operations.