ECOWAS Transport Ministers to Slash Air Travel Taxes by 25%

Transport Ministers from ECOWAS member states have approved a regional strategy to make air travel more affordable across West Africa.

This will become effective from January 1, 2026, and it is expected that the initiative would remove taxes on air transport and reduce aviation charges by 25 per cent.

Experts said the landmark move would aim to lower travel costs, drive economic growth, and strengthen regional integration, significantly impacting the region’s aviation industry and enhancing ease of movement for people and goods across ECOWAS states.

According to the ECOWAS Communications Directorate, transport ministers convened in Lomé to address West Africa’s high air travel costs, which currently include fees, taxes, and charges making up nearly 50% of total ticket prices.

Statement issued at the end of the meeting stated that the ministers discussed “concrete strategies and common policies to lower air travel costs,” and outlined plans to harmonize aviation charges, taxes, and fees through a regional Supplementary Act, aligning with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Also, the ministers adopted a regional regulation establishing common standards and security measures for aviation.

The reforms will be implemented by all ECOWAS countries before January 1, 2026 and member states are tasked with preparing necessary fiscal adjustments and national provisions to support the transition.

However, despite the huge taxes, governments are reluctant to modernise airports and travel infrastructure, hence the low development of air transport in most parts of Africa.

WoldeMaria said airlines wwre charged as much as $2000 on over fliers in a region where the airspace is supposed to be open for member state airlines.