The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced a major policy shift that will see Member States abolish air transport taxes and reduce passenger and security charges by 25 percent beginning January 1, 2026.
The directive follows the adoption of a supplementary Act on Aviation Charges, Taxes and Fees, which seeks to harmonise and significantly lower the cost of air travel across the sub-region.
According to ECOWAS, the decision aligns with commitments made by Heads of State and Government at the December 2024 Summit in Abuja, where leaders endorsed measures to make regional air transport more affordable and competitive.
The initiative aims to address long-standing concerns over the high cost of air travel in West Africa, which has been identified as a major barrier to tourism, trade, and the free movement of people and goods.
With airfares in the region often among the highest in Africa, ECOWAS says the reforms are critical to boosting connectivity, promoting economic growth and strengthening regional integration.
The Commission noted that implementation will be closely monitored through the Regional Air Transport Economic Oversight Mechanism to ensure compliance and assess impact.
Expected benefits include lower ticket prices, increased passenger traffic, support for the growth of regional airlines and enhanced economic cooperation among Member States.
ECOWAS expressed confidence that the move will mark a turning point for the region’s aviation sector, positioning West Africa as a more accessible and competitive destination for travellers and businesses.
