The Government of Sierra Leone is facing mounting criticism in relation to the delayed payment of the $25 airport security fee at the airport, with concerns raised by international travelers regarding the inconvenience it causes at both arrival and departure points.

Research and passenger feedback suggest that the $25 security fee should be incorporated directly into the air ticket price to avoid the additional financial burden on travelers, particularly those who may have exhausted their funds by the time they reach the airport.

Experts argue that including the fee in ticket prices would streamline the process, alleviating long delays caused by cash transactions and reducing the embarrassment passengers face when asked for payment upon arrival. It would also curb illegal fee collection practices that have become a significant issue.

Furthermore, incorporating the fee into ticket prices could enhance the Government's ability to provide critical digital security infrastructure aimed at controlling international crime.

Securiport, the system used for screening, plays a key role in ensuring the safety of passengers, airport installations and equipment through cutting-edge border control technology. By implementing the fee within the ticket price, the Government would not only avoid unnecessary criticism but also provide a more seamless and efficient experience for travelers.

In international markets such as Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast, the USA, the UK and other parts of Europe, airport security fees are included in the price of air tickets, minimizing the burden on passengers and reducing the likelihood of delays at airports.

The airport security fee is a universal policy designed to facilitate the use of advanced technologies that safeguard passengers and maintain airport security. It also helps connect Sierra Leone with international standards, enhancing the country’s ability to screen passengers effectively and prevent threats from terrorists and criminals attempting to bypass border controls.

Several categories of passengers are exempted from this fee, including:

- Members of the Sierra Leone Presidential Delegation


- Members of Foreign Presidential Delegations


- Foreign Diplomats, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961)


- Airline crew members on duty


- Infants (children under 2 years old)


- Transit/transfer passengers within 24 hours


- Passengers rerouted involuntarily due to technical issues or weather conditions

Over the years, the Sierra Leone Government has subsidized the $40 airport security fee for both arriving and departing passengers. While this fee is standard in many countries, it is crucial for maintaining the security of Sierra Leone’s airports and ensuring smooth integration with global passenger screening systems.

The Government is encouraged to expedite action by directing the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) to include the security fee in ticket prices, thereby reducing burdens on passengers and enhancing overall security for the nation.