West Africans may finally begin to enjoy more affordable air travel as ECOWAS moves to remove air ticket taxes across the region.
The new policy, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, is one of the biggest steps the bloc has taken to address the long-standing problem of high airfare costs.
The announcement was made by Chris Appiah, ECOWAS’ director of transport and communications, during the Council of Ministers meeting in Abuja.
He explained that the policy was approved by the Heads of State back in December 2024 after several technical studies confirmed what passengers have complained about for years flying within West Africa is extremely expensive, largely because of government-imposed taxes.
For many travellers, taxes make up most of the ticket price. Studies presented by ECOWAS show that between 64% and 70% of the cost of a typical ticket in the region comes from taxes and aviation charges.
This is far higher than what passengers pay in other parts of Africa. As a result, travelling from one West African country to another often costs more than flying to Europe, the Middle East or the US.
These taxes, Appiah noted, also go against international aviation guidelines and harm the region’s growth. High ticket prices discourage travel, limit tourism, and make it harder for businesses to move goods and attend to cross-border operations.
Even traders feel the impact. A simple trip from Lagos to Dakar can cost as much as $3,000, mostly because of taxes, making regional trade unnecessarily expensive.
ECOWAS believes removing these taxes is crucial to achieving its integration goals. The region wants a space where people, goods and services can move freely without unnecessary barriers. Affordable flights are a key part of that vision.
But removing taxes is just one step. Appiah said ECOWAS is already discussing with airlines to make sure ticket prices actually drop once the policy takes effect.
The organisation wants passengers to feel real relief, not just hear promises. Airlines will therefore be expected to reflect the new cost structure in their pricing and avoid shifting costs onto travellers.
The move also highlights how far behind West Africa has been compared to other African regions. Airlines in East, Southern and North Africa operate with far lower taxes in some cases up to 67% less than what West African carriers face.
This is one reason why major regional airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways and Royal Air Maroc are able to offer more competitive fares and operate more sustainably.
To ensure the January 2026 deadline is met, ECOWAS is working closely with member governments, lawmakers and aviation stakeholders.
Full implementation will require coordination across the entire region, including changes to national laws and aviation policies.
If everything goes as planned, passengers across West Africa may begin to see cheaper, more accessible flights, a change that could boost mobility, tourism, trade and the overall regional economy.