According to the West African economic community, air travel within West Africa is the most expensive in the world and has major challenges in regional integration.
This was disclosed by ECOWAS Commissioner for Energy, Digitalization of Ecowas, Cedico Duca. During the opening of the Sixth Congress of Ekowas Parliament, the committee was delegated to the Joint Committee on Infrastructure, Energy, Mining, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources held in Rom on Tuesday.
Douka emphasizes that airfares between subregional countries are significantly higher for comparable distances in other parts of Africa, and in many cases it is cheaper to fly between neighboring Ekowas states to destinations other than West Africa.
“The air tariffs in West Africa remain excessively high compared to other countries around the world.
“In this case, it is cheaper to fly to another African country than to travel between two ECOWAS countries.
“This situation will be counterproductive for the future of West Africa and collective airspace,” he said.
He noted that air transport usage within West Africa is still below 10%, the lowest on the continent.
This contrasts with growth rates in other regions, including 40.4% in North Africa, 21.4% in South Africa and 20.5% in East Africa, based on a 2024 study conducted by international organizations.
Douka highlighted West Africa's delay in developing a competitive air travel market, calling for an urgent harmony of aviation policies across ECOWAS member states.
He cited Article 32 of the revised ECOWAS Convention. This requires the committee to adjust its air transport strategies to increase connectivity and reduce costs.
The commissioner said, “Recent studies conducted by well-known organizations in 2024 show low growth in air transport in West Africa (less than 10%), in other regions, for example, when 40.4% in North Africa, 21.4% in South Africa and 20.5% in East Africa are recorded).
“Other comparisons made regarding domestic flights, intra-Africa travel, major airlines and airport sizes show that West Africa falls behind these same regions mentioned above.
“In accordance with Article 32 of the revised ECOWAS Convention, statutory bodies mandate the committee to coordinate and harmonize the air transport policies, programs and projects of Member States. Similarly, to contribute all initiatives, strategies and plans of action aimed at improving air transport within the territory.”
He also urged the Joint Committee to consider implementing general passenger rights rules, including compensation for denied boarding, cancellations or significant delays within the ECOWAS area.
