The Economic Community of West African States has strongly opposed new aviation-related taxes introduced by Ghana, warning that the measures contradict regional agreements and risk undermining air transport development across West Africa.
In a formal communication signed by Omar Alieu Touray, the Commission stated that Ghana’s decision runs counter to a binding regional reform framework aimed at reducing the cost of air travel.
The reforms, adopted under a supplementary act effective January 2026, call for the elimination of several taxes, including ticket levies, tourism charges, and other fees imposed on passengers.
According to ECOWAS, Ghana has instead introduced a new $18 security charge on return tickets, alongside a $100 Airport Infrastructure Development Levy on international travel.
The Commission argues that these measures violate both the “letter and spirit” of the agreed reforms and contradict international aviation standards promoted by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
The regional bloc warned that such charges could further increase already high travel costs in West Africa, one of the most expensive regions globally for air transport.
It noted that excessive taxation has been a key factor behind weak passenger traffic in major hubs like Accra, Lagos, Abidjan, and Dakar, despite strong population growth and demand potential.
ECOWAS cautioned that continued reliance on aviation taxes could divert traffic to competing regions, ultimately harming the sector’s growth.
It urged Ghana to immediately suspend the new levies and instead explore alternative financing options, such as public-private partnerships and development financing.
The issue is expected to be reviewed at upcoming regional meetings, where ECOWAS will assess compliance with the agreed aviation reforms and their broader impact on regional integration and economic development.
