Freetown, Sierra Leone – Parliament on Monday, February 24, 2026, unanimously approved a series of agreements between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed at harmonizing and liberalizing air transport across the region.
The ratified supplementary acts establish common rules covering key areas such as market access to ground handling services, airport slot allocation, air carrier liability in the event of accidents, approval of air carriers, tariff regulations for passengers and cargo, passenger compensation for delays or cancellations, aviation security, and competition within the regional air transport market.
Presenting the agreements, Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bhonapha, described the move as a major milestone for Sierra Leone’s aviation sector and economic growth.
He explained that the agreements were the outcome of high-level ECOWAS discussions in Abuja focused on reducing the high cost of air travel and improving safety and efficiency across member states.
Bhonapha noted that ECOWAS has urged all member countries to implement the aviation protocols to enhance safety, strengthen security, and promote regional integration within the aviation industry.
Acting Opposition Leader, Hon. Aaron Koroma, welcomed the ratification, saying the protocols could help address the high cost of air travel in Sierra Leone. However, he stressed the need for urgent investment to improve airport infrastructure and security, warning that the country risks falling behind regional standards.
Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma, assured Parliament that the government remains committed to implementing the agreements and addressing challenges faced by air passengers.
He emphasized that the protocols contain important provisions designed to strengthen the aviation sector and called for effective oversight to ensure their full implementation.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Minister Bhonapha reassured lawmakers that the government would work to address concerns raised during the debate and ensure the agreements deliver tangible benefits to Sierra Leone.
The ratification is expected to pave the way for safer, more efficient, and potentially more affordable air travel within West Africa.
