The Economic Community of West African States has announced that air transport taxes across the region will be abolished beginning 1 January 2026. The regional bloc confirmed that aviation charges linked to passengers and security will also be reduced by 25 percent in the same period. ECOWAS said the measures are the result of decisions made by Heads of State and Government during the December 2024 summit in Abuja.
According to ECOWAS, the reforms address long standing concerns over the high cost of air travel within West Africa which has been widely cited as a barrier to tourism, trade and the free movement of goods and people. The community expects the removal of taxes to contribute to lower airfares, increased passenger traffic and stronger regional airlines. It added that deeper regional integration is a key goal behind the policy changes.
ECOWAS said it will monitor implementation through a dedicated oversight mechanism in all member states to ensure compliance when the new measures take effect.
Across the region, the announcement is viewed as a significant step toward improving mobility and reducing the financial burden on travellers. Regional economic observers note that the high cost of domestic and cross border flights has been a persistent challenge for many West Africans who often rely on long distance road transport instead of air travel. The initiative could therefore change travel habits and open the aviation market to new opportunities.
As West Africa prepares to adapt its aviation sector to these changes, the broader aim is clear. The region seeks to create an environment where movement is easier, business is more connected and growth becomes more attainable. In a young and fast evolving continent, every policy that supports mobility strengthens the sense of possibility at the heart of the region’s future. This is the spirit that continues to shape Africa’s growing voice in global development.
