Sierra Leone Parliament Ratifies Air Transport Agreements

Sierra Leone’s Parliament took a decisive step toward regional integration on February 23, 2026, unanimously ratifying a series of pivotal air transport agreements with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The ratified supplementary acts establish a comprehensive framework to liberalize air transport across West Africa. Key provisions address market access, ground handling services, slot allocation at airports, and air carrier liability during accidents. Additional measures regulate passenger tariffs, freight and mail rates, compensation for delayed flights, aviation security, and competition rules among air carriers.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bhonapha, presented the agreements to Parliament, tracing their origins to high-level discussions in Abuja focused on reducing air travel costs region-wide. He emphasized that full implementation by all member states remains essential for compliance and enhanced aviation safety across West Africa.

Opposition Leader Hon. Aaron Koroma welcomed the protocols as crucial tools for addressing Sierra Leone’s high travel expenses. While acknowledging increased flight traffic, Koroma sounded a cautionary note about infrastructure gaps: "We are relatively lagging in terms of the security of our airport." He urged greater investment and regulatory reinforcement for the aviation sector.

Government Majority Leader Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma framed the ratification within Africa’s wider air transport liberalization agenda. He assured parliamentarians that implementation mechanisms would address passenger challenges while emphasizing parliamentary oversight responsibilities for all ratified treaties. "These documents themselves are good for the people of Sierra Leone," Nyuma asserted.

The Deputy Minister Bhonapha reaffirmed the government's dedication to addressing concerns raised during deliberations. The ratification positions Sierra Leone to benefit from streamlined air services, potentially lower fares, and strengthened safety protocols aligned with ECOWAS standards.

Correspondent: Hassan Bangura

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