The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announces a major plan to make regional air travel cheaper starting January 2026. The new policy removes taxes from airfares and reduces aviation charges by 20 percent to encourage easier movement across West Africa.
Speaking at the sidelines of the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, the Director of Transport and Telecommunications, Mr. Christian Appiah, explains that the initiative targets the long-standing problem of high ticket prices. According to Mediaplusng.com, many passengers currently pay taxes and fees that make up almost 50 percent of total ticket costs.
The policy aims to boost tourism, business mobility, and regional integration. ECOWAS believes that lowering these costs will increase air traffic and strengthen economic ties among member states. As reported by Mediaplusng.com, the commission is working with aviation regulators and finance ministries across the region to ensure smooth implementation.
Mr. Appiah also states that airlines operating within West Africa have been advised to comply fully with the new directive once it becomes effective.
