The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has ordered member states to fully implement a 25 percent reduction in regional air transport charges, starting January 1, 2026. The directive was issued at the bloc’s 68th ordinary session held on Sunday in Abuja.
The decision, initially announced in June, aims to reduce passenger and security charges amid rising air ticket prices across the region. According to the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) 2024 taxes and charges study, West Africa was the most expensive region for air travel in 2022, with international departures attracting an average of $109.5 in taxes, fees, and charges.
Among the top ten countries with the highest ticket-related charges were Gabon, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria, followed by Niger Republic, Benin, Senegal, Liberia, Guinea, and Ghana.
ECOWAS also noted that Central and West Africa accounted for 18.5 percent of Africa’s air traffic in the first quarter of 2025, making the region the third largest in terms of traffic on the continent.
In a communique following the summit, the bloc’s leaders further directed the removal of taxes levied on air transport services. The move aligns with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) principles, which require that taxes, fees, and charges on air transport be transparent, relevant, and related to services provided.
The commission has been tasked with collaborating with regional ministries of finance and air transport to ensure uniform implementation and strict compliance with the directive.
Melissa Enoch
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