High airport taxes and fees make West Africa one of the priciest regions for air travel. Adding to existing hurdles in the sector, this challenge has now become a key focus for ECOWAS.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced Tuesday it will begin a series of meetings in Lomé, Togo, to address the high cost of air travel in West Africa. During four days, aviation ministers, civil aviation directors, industry leaders, and stakeholders will discuss reforms to lower operational costs, including airport fees and taxes, and harmonize safety protocols.

"Charges levied by airport operators, air navigation service providers, and civil aviation authorities, along with government-imposed taxes, have severe negative impacts on the region’s air transport industry," ECOWAS said in a statement. "These fees also place West African airlines at a disadvantage, as they struggle to survive against intense competition from foreign carriers."

This concern echoes findings from the Airports Council International (ACI), which noted that African countries impose some of the world’s highest airport taxes and fees, often exceeding $100 per passenger. These costs raise ticket prices, making air travel less affordable for many in the region.

ECOWAS's initiative comes as Africa seeks to establish the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), seen as a key driver for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Reducing air transport costs is expected to unlock new opportunities in tourism, education, healthcare, trade, and other vital sectors, while also promoting the free movement of people.