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…boosts regional integration
Member States of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) have adopted a resolution to introduce a one-dollar Passenger Safety Charge (PSC) on international commercial departing flights.
The PSC will be implemented gradually beginning 1 January 2026, with full enforcement expected by 2030. Member States also agreed that, upon full implementation of the PSC, existing annual contributions by States to the regional aviation organisations will be phased out.
The decision, reached during the 18th Plenary Session of BAG held in Abuja aimed to provide a sustainable funding mechanism for BAG, the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA), and the BAG Aviation Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO).
Hosted by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, the gathering brought together aviation ministers and regulators from BAG’s seven member states: Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Guinea-Conakry, The Gambia, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone.
Jailza Silva, Executive Director of BAGASOO who presented the proposal, emphasised the need for reliable and self-sustaining funding to enhance safety oversight, regulatory harmonization, and regional aviation development. The plenary acknowledged the funding challenges faced by BAGASOO and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the agency’s work.
Another outcome of the plenary was the renewed commitment to accelerate the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) within the BAG region. A representative of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) highlighted the strategic importance of SAATM in strengthening the competitive position of West Africa in global aviation and advancing economic integration and trade facilitation.
To support this effort, the plenary recommended full operationalisation of the BAG Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA) and proposed the establishment of a SAATM Implementation Task Force to monitor progress and report to relevant ministers. Regional airline partnerships and joint ventures were encouraged to increase route viability and reduce operating costs.
Chris Najomo, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, while briefing the press underscored the significance of the decisions taken. “The resolutions reached today will strengthen aviation safety and create a seamless air transport market across BAG States. This collaboration and commitment among member States is a major step forward,” he said.
Najomo also addressed the expected benefits of SAATM, including direct connectivity between BAG States, reduced airfares, and improved passenger convenience. He noted that while some airlines had raised initial concerns, the overall vision is to facilitate open skies and increased intra-African travel.
Gambia was announced as the host of the 19th BAG Plenary Session, with specific dates and venue details to be communicated in due course.
