ATE 2026: Why flying within Europe is cheaper than Africa - CEO Wakanow

The exorbitant cost of flying within Africa stems from structural challenges rather than airline profiteering, argues Bayo Adedeji, Group Chief Executive Officer of Wakanow. Speaking at the Africa Technology Expo 2026, Adedeji explained that airlines receive only about 40% of a ticket's total cost, with 25% going to crude oil expenses and 35% to taxes.

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The decouple the cost of flights. 40 per cent goes to airline, 25 per cent crude oil, 35 per cent taxes.

Adedeji contrasted the African aviation market with Europe's, where integrated and liberalized air transport systems make intra-European flights significantly cheaper. He called on African governments, particularly in West Africa, to adopt policies that would domesticate regional air travel, suggesting such reforms could reduce airfares by as much as 25%.

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Traveling within Europe is different because it has been domesticated, there is no overcharge. It is cheaper to fly within Europe, Africa is not.

"The entire system is rigged, the business is rigged against us," Adedeji stated, emphasizing that flight remains a luxury in Africa, out of reach for many. He highlighted the vast opportunities within the travel and aviation sector, especially in technology, encouraging young Africans to engage with the industry and consumers to support local businesses for improved services.

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We need to talk to our government about domesticating flight. If they domesticate flight in West Africa alone, the cost will go down by 25 per cent.