New data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that Nigeria generated $62 million from airline ticket taxes in 2024, contributing to the broader $1.97 billion collected across Africa and the global $60.3 billion in ticket-tax revenue during the same period.
Although Africa’s share of global ticket-tax earnings remains relatively small, countries like Nigeria play a notable role in shaping the continent’s revenue. Other African contributors include South Africa ($410 million), Egypt ($360 million), Ethiopia ($310 million), Morocco ($295 million), and Kenya ($215 million)—all hosting major international hubs.
Ticket taxes in Africa averaged $14.9 per passenger, higher than the Asia Pacific region, but below the levels in North America ($23.4 domestic, $49.8 international) and South America ($45.5 per international ticket). North America remained the largest contributor globally, generating $34.1 billion, while Europe followed with $14.5 billion in combined domestic and international ticket taxes.
Almost all of Africa’s revenue came from international travel, with domestic ticket taxes totaling just $49 million. The continent’s international earnings were largely driven by average charges of $20.7 per passenger.
Nigeria’s ticket-tax revenue is set to increase further from December 1, 2025, as the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) imposes an additional $11.5 security levy on all international flights. This raises the total security levy on each ticket to $31.50. According to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), airlines are responsible for collecting and remitting the levy at the point of sale for every passenger departing from or arriving in Nigeria.
The increase aims to enhance airport security and compliance while ensuring that Nigeria remains aligned with international aviation safety standards.
