Government Suspends US$25 Airport Security Fee

The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the temporary suspension of the US$25 Airport Security Fee charged to passengers travelling through the Freetown International Airport, effective Monday, 6 July 2026.

The announcement was made by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in a public notice issued on Friday, 3 July 2026, stating that the suspension will remain in effect until further notice.

According to the Ministry, the decision follows a ministerial directive and forms part of a broader review of the contractual framework governing the collection of the airport security fee. The measure is intended to facilitate an ongoing independent Special Audit by the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) and to assess a more efficient and passenger-friendly collection system.

The Ministry said the suspension is aimed at reducing inconvenience for travellers while strengthening transparency and accountability in the administration of airport security services.

Officials clarified that the suspension does not constitute the termination of the existing operating contract with Securiport (SL) Limited.

“The public is explicitly assured that this directive does not constitute a termination of the operating contract,” the Ministry stated.

During the suspension period, Securiport (SL) Limited will continue providing its core technological services and recording standard inbound and outbound passenger data, excluding holders of diplomatic passports, in line with its operational responsibilities.

The Ministry has directed all relevant airport authorities to ensure the smooth implementation of the directive from 6 July and called for full cooperation during the transition period.

It also expressed appreciation to the travelling public for its understanding, stating that the review is aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing accountability, and delivering a more seamless passenger experience at the Freetown International Airport.