Transport Ministers from ECOWAS member states have approved a regional strategy to make air travel more affordable across West Africa.

Effective January 1, 2026, the initiative will remove taxes on air transport and reduce aviation charges by 25 per cent.

This landmark move aims to lower travel costs, drive economic growth, and strengthen regional integration, significantly impacting the region’s aviation industry and enhancing ease of movement for people and goods across ECOWAS states.

In a statement by the ECOWAS Communications Directorate, transport ministers convened in Lomé to address West Africa’s high air travel costs, which currently include fees, taxes, and charges making up nearly 50% of total ticket prices.

The ministers discussed “concrete strategies and common policies to lower air travel costs,” and outlined plans to harmonize aviation charges, taxes, and fees through a regional Supplementary Act, aligning with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Additionally, the ministers adopted a regional regulation establishing common standards and security measures for aviation.

The reforms will be implemented by all ECOWAS countries before January 1, 2026. Member states are tasked with preparing necessary fiscal adjustments and national provisions to support the transition.

ECOWAS and its partners will support these changes by mobilizing resources, establishing a regional oversight committee to monitor compliance, and initiating support projects, such as a regional aircraft leasing company and maintenance centre to provide more affordable services to West African airlines.