ECOWAS is reinforcing its commitment to regional integration and the free movement of persons and goods by advancing the harmonization of safer standards and operational procedures in aviation across West Africa. This initiative is being spearheaded through an Experts Validation Workshop on Aviation Security (AVSEC) Regulation, organized by the Transport Directorate of the ECOWAS Commission in Lagos, Nigeria, in preparation for an Air Transport Ministers meeting on AVSEC and the reduction of taxes, charges, and fees which make the region one of the most expensive in terms of air travel.
The three-day workshop, held from September 4th to 6th, 2024, brought together aviation security experts from ECOWAS Member States, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Banjul Accord Group for Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO), ICAO Certified Auditors, and the ECOWAS Commission. This gathering is a crucial step advancing an important component of the ongoing project to support the air transport industry in West and Central Africa under the ECOWAS Air Transport Improvement Program.
Aviation Security Experts at the meeting reviewed and finalized draft regional regulations that align with the latest amendments to ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (ICAO-SARPs) while taking into account broader objectives of facilitating air travel within West Africa. Additionally, they drafted a framework for establishing and operating an AVSEC pool as well as an Action Plan for its realization. The recommendations from this workshop will be presented to sector ministers for endorsement and subsequently to ECOWAS.
The main purpose of the ECOWAS Regional AVSEC regulation is to establish a harmonized regulatory framework for passenger safety against acts of unlawful interference. Specifically, it provides measures to prevent weapons or dangerous devices from being used to commit harm, ensuring uniform interpretation and application of ICAO's Chicago Convention Annexes 9 on “Facilitation” and 17 on “Security.” Once adopted by ECOWAS Governing Bodies, Member States will set up AVSEC Pool Experts trained with standardized tools to ensure consistent implementation across the region.
In his welcome address, Mr. Chris Appiah, Acting Director of Transport at ECOWAS Commission emphasized "the significance of a harmonized AVSEC regulation" for West Africa's aviation industry. He highlighted "the urgency of validating proposed regulations" governing air transport security across the region.
Mr. Appiah also noted other ongoing interventions aimed at improving air transport operations and making air travel more affordable. He mentioned collaboration with IATA to develop strategies reducing air transport costs by addressing excessive charges contributing to high ticket prices.
Furthermore, Mr. Appiah disclosed that discussions are underway with major aircraft manufacturers to assist airlines in reducing maintenance costs through a regional Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO) center localizing aircraft maintenance services within West Africa.
Representing ICAO, Mr. Ademola Oladele praised ECOWAS for finalizing regional regulations as part of improving West African air transport. He reaffirmed ICAO’s commitment "to supporting successful execution" of ECOWAS's AVSEC Program.
Dr. Bernard O.C Omogo from Nigeria's NCAA urged participants "to put forth their best recommendations," emphasizing their importance in enhancing aviation security operations within West Africa.
The validated final versions will be presented at a Sector Ministerial Meeting scheduled for November 2024 before submission to ECOWAS Council of Ministers for final adoption in December 2024.
---
Alerts Sign-up