Parliament Ratifies Nine Transport and Aviation Agreements, Promising Cheaper Air Travel

By Kelfala Kargbo

Freetown, 24^th February 2026– Sierra Leone’s Parliament has ratified nine transport and aviation agreements that officials say could pave the way for cheaper air tickets and harmonised taxes across the region.

Deputy Minister of Trade and Aviation Rex Bonapha, presenting the agreements, told lawmakers that the measures stem from the 65th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS in 2024, where member states agreed to tackle the high cost of air travel. He said the agreements are designed to make transport more accessible and affordable, while boosting tourism, trade, and regional integration.

Paragraph 17 of the ECOWAS Communiqué expressed concern over rising air travel costs and directed member states to implement a Common Policy on Aviation Charges, Taxes, and Fees. In November 2024, ECOWAS convened civil aviation directors to develop strategies, leading Sierra Leone to sign onto the treaties, which were later approved by the ECOWAS Commission.

Bonapha explained that the agreements call for a gradual reduction of aviation taxes and charges, as well as regional harmonisation of aviation security standards. He assured Parliament that Sierra Leone would fully implement the protocols.

Debate in Parliament reflected both optimism and frustration. Hon. Aaron Koroma, Deputy Leader of Opposition 2, welcomed the agreements but criticised the delay, noting that Sierra Leoneans have struggled with high ticket prices for years. “Why did the Ministry wait since 2012, when Sierra Leoneans have been suffering with high ticket prices, only to bring this document in 2026 for ratification?” he asked.

Koroma also flagged broader issues in the aviation sector, including the lack of compensation for passengers facing delays. “Sierra Leoneans are the most abused travelers. Despite people being subjected to flight delays, they have not been compensated,” he said, describing himself as one of the victims.

Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, Leader of Government Business, called for the liberalisation of the air transport system and domestication of the treaties’ protocols. “When you liberalise transport systems, you must harmonise the rules and regulations,” he argued.

The agreements were ratified with support from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC). Lawmakers expressed hope that the reforms would ease one of West Africa’s most expensive air travel markets, where Sierra Leone has long ranked among the highest in fees.