The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has adopted a series of measures to reduce taxes and charges on air transport, with the aim of lowering the cost of airline tickets across the region.
Lilia Habboul
"Starting from January 1, 2026, all ECOWAS Member States will abolish taxes on air transport and reduce passenger and security charges by 25%, in accordance with a Supplementary Act on aeronautical charges, taxes and fees,” the regional organization said in a statement released on Wednesday.
This decision addresses long-standing concerns over the high cost of travel in West Africa, which has hindered tourism, trade, and the free movement of people and goods, according to the same source.
The Director of Transport at the ECOWAS Commission noted that easing the costs associated with air transport should encourage airlines to lower their ticket prices, Faapa reported.
Implementation of the reform will be monitored by the ECOWAS Commission through a Regional Air Transport Economic Monitoring Mechanism. The expected outcomes include lower airfares, increased passenger traffic, stronger regional airlines, and deeper regional integration.