ECOWAS to Scrap Air Ticket Taxes by 2026, Aims to Lower Passenger Costs

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the scrapping of air ticket taxes by January 2026 to lower passenger costs and enhance regional integration. Nigerian aviation minister Festus Keyamo highlighted the challenges faced by local airlines due to high airfare charges, impacting domestic travel.

The decision, endorsed by ECOWAS heads of state during a summit in Abuja in December 2024, aims to address the complex fee structures stifling growth in the aviation sector. The move follows extensive research conducted by ECOWAS, the African Union, AFRAA, and IATA, indicating West Africa's high air travel costs compared to global standards.