ECOWAS Ministers Pledge to Cut West African Air Travel Taxes by 2026
Transport Ministers from ECOWAS member states have committed to reducing air travel taxes across West Africa, aiming to make regional flights more affordable. During a November 2024 meeting in Lomé, the ministers pledged to implement reforms by January 2026, focusing on a 25% reduction in passenger and security-related fees and the elimination of non-compliant taxes. This move is expected to boost passenger traffic, enhance regional integration, and stimulate economic development. Currently, significant disparities exist in ticket taxation across West African airports, with Cotonou imposing some of the highest fees—up to 92,560 CFA francs (€141) for economy flights within ECOWAS—while Abidjan leads with the lowest taxes, starting at 30,000 CFA francs.
Though tax reductions mark progress, broader challenges such as elevated fuel costs, high operational expenses, and limited competition continue to inflate ticket prices in the region. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has long criticised levies unrelated to aviation, such as VAT and tourism-specific taxes, as barriers to travel. Furthermore, airlines argue that infrastructure costs often passed on to passengers should be absorbed into national development budgets. While ECOWAS’s reforms lay the groundwork for more accessible air travel, experts stress the need for comprehensive strategies addressing the structural factors shaping airfare pricing. Travel professionals should remain aware of these reforms as they unfold, preparing for potential increases in regional connectivity and passenger demand.
Source: TravelNews.Africa
