By David Akinmola
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced plans to abolish regional air ticket taxes beginning January 2026, a major policy shift expected to significantly reduce the cost of air travel within the sub-region.
The decision, endorsed at the bloc’s ministerial meeting on transport and aviation, is part of a broader strategy to deepen regional integration, enhance the competitiveness of West African carriers, and stimulate intra-regional travel and trade.
According to officials familiar with the resolution, the removal of taxes such as solidarity levies, surcharges and other statutory fees currently added to base fares is projected to reduce ticket prices by between 15 and 25 per cent, depending on the route and carrier.
ECOWAS said the reform is aimed at addressing long-standing concerns from airlines and passengers over high travel costs, which have been widely blamed for suppressing demand and limiting connectivity across West Africa. The region has some of the highest airfares globally, driven largely by heavy taxation and operational constraints.
Member states are expected to begin domestic legislative adjustments in 2025 to enable full implementation the following year. ECOWAS will also engage national civil aviation authorities and finance ministries to harmonise the process, ensuring compliance across all 15 member countries.
Industry analysts welcomed the move, noting that cheaper fares could boost passenger traffic, support tourism recovery, and improve economic integration.
Airlines operating within the region are also expected to benefit from increased load factors and improved route viability.
However, some governments may face short-term revenue losses from the discontinued levies. ECOWAS has pledged to support states in identifying alternative revenue channels and improving efficiency in aviation sector management.
If fully implemented, the policy would mark one of the most significant aviation reforms in West Africa in over a decade and could reposition the region as a more affordable and competitive air travel market.
