Air transport ministers from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) have taken decisive action to address the pressing challenges of high air transport costs and to fortify aviation security across the region.
During a high-level gathering held in Lomé, Togo, they discussed developing concrete strategies and common policies to lower air travel costs, which are currently among the highest globally.
In fact, in West Africa, charges, taxes and fees represent almost 50% of the total air ticket cost. The goal is to harmonise, through a regional ‘Supplementary Act’, aviation charges, taxes and fees in line with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (Icao).
They also adopted a regional regulation relating to the common basic standards and measures applicable to aviation security. These efforts align with the instructions issued by the Authority of Ecowas Heads of State and Government during their 65th Ordinary Session in July, which called for decisive action to reduce air transport costs and improve accessibility for citizens throughout West Africa.
Ecowas Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalisation, M Sédiko Douka, emphasised that “high air travel costs in West Africa serve as a barrier to trade and regional integration. Aligning our aviation taxes with global standards is imperative to make air travel more accessible and competitive”.
There was consensus that harmonising aviation charges and enhancing security would attract vital investments, bolster tourism, and strengthen economic cooperation among Ecowas member states.
Key priorities are the elimination of all taxes not in line with Icao recommendations and a 25% reduction of two main charges (passengers and security). All these decisions aim to optimise fees and ensure that aviation security protocols meet international best practices.
These reforms, which must be applied by all member states before January 1, 2026, are expected to drive passenger traffic, stimulate economic growth, and facilitate the free movement of people, goods, and services within the region, ultimately deepening regional integration.
Recommendations will be presented to the upcoming Ecowas Council of Ministers and Heads of State Summit in December. These strategic recommendations are anticipated to solidify the necessary reforms for transforming the aviation sector in West Africa, thereby positioning it as a cornerstone for economic growth and regional integration.
The ministers also considered a proposal for compensation to passengers in the case of excessive flight delays.
