ECOWAS warns Ghana over new aviation taxes

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally opposed Ghana's newly introduced aviation taxes. This includes an $18 security charge becoming effective on February 1, 2026, and a $100 Airport Infrastructure Development Levy from April 1, 2026. The regional body warns these charges violate a binding regional decision aimed at reducing air travel costs across West Africa.

These new taxes directly contradict Supplementary Act A/SA.2/12/24, a decision by ECOWAS leaders to eliminate certain air travel-related taxes by January 2026. The act specifically targeted ticket taxes, tourism levies, solidarity taxes, and overseas travel taxes. Additionally, member states committed to lowering Passenger Service Charges and security fees to make flying more affordable and strengthen regional integration. ECOWAS believes Ghana's actions move in the opposite direction of these agreed reforms, potentially harming the air transport sector.

Ghana's decision to levy new aviation taxes comes amidst broader efforts in the West African region to enhance economic integration. The ECOWAS initiative to lower air travel costs aims to boost trade, tourism, and connectivity among member states. This aligns with a regional focus on improving infrastructure and fostering economic development. However, high taxation in the aviation sector has long been a concern, with West Africa frequently cited as one of the most expensive regions globally for air transport. Ghana's new levies could worsen this situation despite existing calls for reduction.

ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray signed a letter expressing the Commission's concerns. He stated that Ghana's new charges directly contravene the spirit and letter of the ECOWAS Supplementary Act. He also noted that Ghana's actions conflict with international aviation principles from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These guidelines discourage excessive taxation in air transport to avoid stifling demand.

The introduction of these additional charges could make air travel even less affordable for passengers. West African travelers already face increasing aviation fuel costs. ECOWAS warns that while these taxes aim to generate revenue, they may instead suppress passenger demand. Reduced demand for air travel would harm the aviation industry and broader economic growth. The Commission notes weak passenger traffic at major West African airports, including Accra, Lagos, Abidjan, and Dakar, attributing this to excessive taxation.

The ECOWAS Commission now urges Ghana to suspend the newly imposed charges. It also suggests alternative funding methods for aviation infrastructure, such as private sector partnerships or development bank support. This issue will likely be a key discussion point at upcoming regional meetings. ECOWAS plans to present a progress report on how member states are implementing the agreed reforms. Continued reliance on high aviation taxes could divert regional air traffic to competing hubs outside West Africa.