Nigeria Nigeria Ranks 3rd in Africa for Highest Air Ticket Taxes, Stifling Travel Growth

The Digest:

A new report by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) reveals that Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Gabon impose Africa's highest air ticket taxes and charges, significantly burdening travelers. Nigeria ranks third in both international ($180) and regional ($180) departures, far exceeding the continental average. This surge in costs, driven by non-compliance with international standards, positions West Africa as the continent's most expensive region for air travel

Key Points:

• Nigeria ranks 3rd in Africa for the highest air ticket charges in 2024.
• Passengers pay $180 for both international and regional departures.
• Sierra Leone ($294) and Gabon ($297.7 international) top the list.
• West Africa is the most expensive sub-region for air travel.
• The African average is $68 for international and $59.05 for regional departures.
• African passengers pay an average of 3.5 separate taxes per international ticket.
• AFRAA notes widespread non-compliance with ICAO aviation taxation standards.

The report underscores that many African states use aviation charges as revenue tools, detrimental to airline profitability and passenger affordability. AFRAA urges governments to review tax regimes and reduce reliance on passenger charges to foster air connectivity.

Sources: Vanguard News, Nairametrics, African Airlines Association (AFRAA) 2024 Taxes and Charges Study Review