Africa’s aviation sector is on course for a major expansion, with Boeing projecting passenger air traffic to grow by an average of 6% annually over the next two decades. The aircraft manufacturer’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook attributes the rise to a young population, a strengthening middle class, rapid urbanization and increased investment in airport infrastructure and connectivity.
Boeing expects the continent’s commercial fleet to more than double, reaching 1,680 aircraft by 2044. To meet the surge in demand, Africa is projected to receive over 1,200 new airplanes, with single-aisle jets accounting for about 70% of deliveries, a sign of growing domestic and short-haul international travel.
“Aviation is a catalyst for Africa’s economic expansion and intra-continental connection,” said Shahab Matin, Boeing’s managing director of Commercial Marketing for the Middle East and Africa. He noted that the continent has shown steady growth over the past two decades, positioning it for a strong aviation-driven economic phase.
The long-term expansion will also require significant workforce development. Boeing forecasts that African carriers will need 74,000 new personnel, including pilots, technicians and cabin crew, over the next 20 years.
Additionally, demand for aviation services to support the growing fleet and enhance operational resilience is expected to reach 130 billion dollars by 2044.
