Sierra Leone Suspends $25 Airport Security Fee Pending Contract Review and Audit
Sierra Leone has suspended the collection of a US$25 airport security fee charged to international passengers at Freetown International Airport, effective 6 July, pending a government review of the contract and an independent special audit by Audit Service Sierra Leone. The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed that the suspension will remain in force until further notice, and that authorities are also exploring a more integrated approach to collecting airport-related charges. The contract with Securiport (SL) Limited, which provides passenger data management and security technology services, remains in place during the review period.
The suspension has been broadly welcomed by travellers who have long questioned the value of the levy relative to the quality of airport facilities, citing the absence of free Wi-Fi and limited passenger amenities as key concerns. The development carries significance for Sierra Leone's tourism and business travel sectors at a time when the country is actively working to improve its appeal to international visitors and diaspora travellers. Industry observers note that the outcome of the review - and any future decision to reinstate, modify or permanently remove the fee - could have a material impact on the country's broader aviation and tourism policy direction.
Source: Pan African Visions
