If There’s good news for West Africa. ECOWAS plans to remove air ticket taxes across the region starting January 1, 2026. This should lower flight costs, which are among the highest in Africa. The goal is to make travel for work or leisure easier and more affordable. ECOWAS believes this change will encourage more people to travel, increase trade, and help local airlines compete. They are working with airlines to ensure the savings appear in lower ticket prices for travelers.
Chris Appiah, the head of transport at ECOWAS, shared the news in Abuja. He explained that studies show West Africa is the most expensive region to fly in Africa, mainly because of government taxes and aviation fees. Appiah said these taxes do not follow international standards and make travel more difficult instead of supporting its growth. He pointed out that some taxes, such as the security tax, are not related to flying and will be removed.
This plan follows a decision made by leaders at the 2023 ECOWAS Summit in Abuja. A rule from December 2024 states that member countries should eliminate air travel taxes and reduce aviation fees by 25% starting in 2026.
Currently, flight costs prevent many from traveling and trading. Appiah gave an example of a flight from Lagos to Dakar, where a business traveler pays about $3,200 to $3,300 for a ticket, mostly because of these taxes. He hopes more people will fly, which means airlines and governments will earn more due to increased demand.
Another goal is to help West African airlines, which have struggled compared to those in regions with better regulations. Air transport fees in West Africa can be up to 67% higher than in other parts of Africa.
Appiah emphasized that the benefits go beyond airlines and governments. Improved air travel should boost tourism, support health and education, make trade easier, and help people move more freely across the region.
He said that reducing taxes will encourage more people to travel, which is good for business, society, and regional unity.
As ECOWAS moves forward with this major change, many hope it will truly make flying cheaper and easier in the region, helping the economy grow and making West Africa more connected.
