(3 Minutes Read)
Africa’s aviation sector is on the brink of transformation, driven by renewed calls to improve intra-continental connectivity. Despite comprising nearly 20% of the world’s population, Africa accounts for only 2% of global air traffic, with just 28% of African airline flights remaining within the continent—compared to 80% in Europe.
Historically, low passenger demand and poor connectivity have deterred regional routes. However, projections suggest Africa’s middle class could grow to 1.1 billion by 2060, fueling cross-border travel for business and leisure. Currently, 64% of intra-African routes see fewer than seven flights per week, and many city pairs lack direct links—forcing travelers through non-African hubs.
Data indicates that direct flights can stimulate significant demand. Aircraft manufacturers have identified over 40 viable but unserved regional routes. Forecasts also suggest intra-African passenger traffic could quadruple in two decades, with 7% annual growth requiring over 1,000 new aircraft.
However, policy barriers persist. Protectionism and limited implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) hinder progress. Executing liberalisation agreements and removing restrictions on ownership, capacity, and frequency could unlock immense economic benefits—boosting tourism, trade, employment, and GDP.
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Experts and airline leaders agree: improved connectivity and strategic investment could turn Africa into a robust aviation hub. But realising this vision demands political commitment, infrastructure development, and bolder commercial strategies to connect the continent—and its people—like never before.
