By Chinelo Obogo
Seven African nations under the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) have proposed implementing a $1 Passenger Safety Charge (PSC) on tickets for originating international flights.
The measure aims to address chronic funding shortfalls and strengthen safety oversight and regulatory capacity across member states.
BAG’s funding challenges have been exacerbated by defaults in annual subscription payments from several member countries, undermining the Group’s ability to achieve its core safety objectives. The member states include Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, The Gambia, Cape Verde, and Sierra Leone, with Nigeria historically serving as the primary financier.
The $1 PSC proposal was formally adopted during the 18th Plenary Session of BAG, held over three days in Abuja and hosted by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The meeting brought together representatives from all seven member countries, alongside the Council of Ministers.
The charge is intended as a sustainable funding mechanism to support BAG, the Banjul Accord Group Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO), and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Authority (BAGAIA).
It was agreed that upon full implementation of the PSC, the member states’ direct contributions would be gradually phased out.
According to the report, “The PSC implementation is scheduled to commence on 1 January 2026, with full implementation expected by 2030, allowing time for the necessary amendments to national legislation.”
Speaking on the proposal, Director-General of Civil Aviation Nigeria, Capt. Chris Najomo, said, “If accepted by the governments of the member countries, this initiative will also accelerate the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD).”
He added, “Improved connectivity within Africa will lead to significantly reduced airfares and shorter travel times.”
Capt. Najomo noted that the ministers from member states will convene on Thursday to deliberate on the recommendations and other outcomes of the plenary for further action at the national level.
Addressing connectivity challenges within Africa, he said, “The plenary agreed that restrictions within member states should be lifted to facilitate seamless interlining and enhanced interconnectivity.”
However, he acknowledged capacity limitations among local carriers in the region, stating, “Most countries lack sufficient domestic operators. For instance, Nigeria operates 13 scheduled domestic airlines, whereas some countries have only one or two, and others none at all. Sierra Leone, for example, just issued its first Air Operator Certificate (AOC) — facilitated by Nigeria through the Nigerian operator Air Sierra Leone.”
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional support: “Nigeria will continue to assist countries in the sub-region. We need stronger collaboration among the seven BAG member states. Sierra Leone referred to Nigeria as their ‘big brother’ due to the substantial support provided. We have signed multiple MoUs to aid member states, which will greatly enhance SAATM’s implementation.”
The plenary also expressed appreciation for continued support from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The report stated, “The plenary noted the increase in EASA funding from Five Million Euros (€5,000,000) to Ten Million Euros (€10,000,000) and agreed to continue leveraging this vital support.”
BAG urged airlines and aviation service providers to join its fold, with the report indicating, “Member states agreed to intensify efforts to sensitize their airlines and service providers on the importance of joining BAG for mutual collaboration and stronger regional aviation safety.”