The Economic Community of West African States has announced major reforms aimed at reducing the soaring costs of air travel within Nigeria and across West Africa.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Commission revealed that during their December 2024 summit in Abuja, Heads of State and Government approved a measure to eliminate taxes on air transport and cut passenger and security charges by 25 per cent, effective January 1, 2026.
ECOWAS explained that the decision comes after years of slow growth in the region’s aviation industry, attributed to high taxes, fees, and charges that suppress travel demand and hinder investment in airport infrastructure.
The Commission highlighted that research by ECOWAS, the African Union, AFRAA, and IATA shows West Africa remains one of the world’s most expensive regions for air travel. Passengers often face up to 66 separate charges, while airlines contend with over 100 fees.
“The Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), at their Summit held in December 2024 in Abuja, adopted a landmark measure aimed at lowering the cost of air travel across the region.
“From 1 January 2026, all ECOWAS Member States will remove taxes applied to air transport and reduce passenger and security charges by 25 percent. This decision comes against the backdrop of years of stunted growth in the region’s air transport sector, largely due to excessive taxes, charges and, in some instances, fees, which together suppress travel demand.
“This situation has limited governments’ ability to mobilise adequate revenue for investment in airport infrastructure and services, thereby reducing the sector’s attractiveness as a driver of economic development.
“The new policy aligns with the principles of the Inter- national Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Chicago Convention, which promote fair, transparent and non-discriminatory aviation practices worldwide. It is also designed to enhance the competitiveness of West African airlines, strengthen airports and stimulate investment in aviation infrastructure.
“The expected benefits of the reform are substantial. Ticket prices could fall by as much as 40 percent, making air travel accessible to a broader segment of the population. Airlines are expected to carry more passengers, while airports and surrounding communities will benefit from increased traffic and economic activity.
“Tourism and business travel are projected to expand, while governments are expected, in the long term, to generate increased revenue from a stronger and more dynamic air transport sector”.
The Commission stressed that member states must revise national laws and policies to fully implement the reform, while airlines are expected to pass the reductions directly to travellers. Compliance will be monitored through a new Regional Air Transport Economic Oversight Mechanism, alongside other initiatives such as joint maintenance facilities and harmonised safety standards.
ECOWAS said the move is intended not only to make flying more affordable but also to encourage travel, boost tourism, and create broader economic opportunities across the region.
