Strategy in place to make travel more affordable across West Africa

Transport ministers from the ECOWAS region have approved a regional strategy to make air travel more affordable across West Africa.

Nigeria is a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Image: Air Peace

Raphael Kuuchi, IATA Vice President for Africa, said: “Fees, taxes, and charges make up nearly 50%of the total tickets in the sub-region.  They agreed to abolish all taxes on airline tickets and reduce by at least 25% passenger and security charges at airports.  This will become effective from January 1, 2026.”

The ministers also outlined plans to harmonise aviation charges, taxes, and fees through a Regional Supplementary Act, aligning with ICAO’s standards.

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