The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced a landmark decision to abolish air transport taxes and reduce passenger and security charges by 25% across all 15 member states, effective January 1, 2026.

This move aims to make air travel more affordable, stimulate regional connectivity, and boost economic growth.

The decision, made at the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government Summit in Abuja, December 2024, responds to long-standing concerns about high air travel costs in West Africa, which have constrained tourism, trade, and the free movement of persons and goods.

Aviation experts attribute the high costs to multiple taxes, levies, and charges imposed by governments and regulatory authorities, making short regional flights more expensive than some intercontinental journeys.

The reforms are expected to lower ticket prices by up to 40%, increase passenger traffic, strengthen regional airlines, enhance tourism and business travel and support trade and regional integration.

However, ECOWAS will monitor implementation through a Regional Air Transport Economic Oversight Mechanism, ensuring member states comply and passengers benefit from the reductions.