Mr Sédiko Douka, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, has stated that air transport fares within the West African subregion are the highest globally. Recent studies indicate that air transportation within West Africa is less than 10%, representing the lowest rate, which poses a significant barrier to regional integration.

Douka addressed these concerns in Lome at the Sixth Legislature ECOWAS Parliament Delocalised meeting of the Joint Committee on Infrastructure, Energy and Mines, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources. He conveyed that the ECOWAS leadership is deeply concerned and has tasked the Commission with coordinating and harmonizing air transport policies, programs, and projects across Member States.

Douka highlighted the excessive air tariffs in West Africa compared to other regions. He noted that it is often cheaper to fly to another African country than between two countries within ECOWAS, which is detrimental to the region's future and collective airspace. Studies conducted in 2024 show low growth in West African air transport (less than 10%), while North Africa records 40.4%, Southern Africa 21.4%, and East Africa 20.5%. Comparisons of domestic flights, intra-African travel, major airlines, and airport size also reveal West Africa's lagging performance.

In line with Article 32 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty, the Commission is mandated to coordinate and harmonize air transport policies, programs, and projects of Member States, contributing to initiatives and strategies aimed at improving air transport within the region. Douka urged the meeting to address common rules for passenger compensation in cases of denied boarding, cancellation, or significant flight delays within the ECOWAS region.