Accra, Feb. 10, GNA - The Chief Executive of Ghana Airways, Mr Philip Owusu, has said the airline has raised the needed funds to defray the balance of 110,000 Euros it owed Euro-control over aeronautical charges.

The transfer instructions for this have therefore been effected before the close of business on Monday, he said.

Mr Owusu, who was speaking to newsmen in Accra concerning the impounding in London of a Ghana Airways aircraft for not paying the charges said although the necessary transfer of payment had been made, Euro-control management insisted on releasing the aircraft only in exchange for cash.

He said the Ghana Airways plane was expected to depart London by 1500 hours on Tuesday, adding that some 200 passengers, who should have departed London last Sunday, were presently being accommodated in hostels.

Mr Owusu said urgent steps needed to be taken to save Ghana Airways from severe financial difficulties.