Africa’s growing appetite for air travel is set to trigger a major expansion of the continent’s aviation industry, with airlines expected to more than double their commercial aircraft fleet over the next 20 years.
The number of aircraft serving African markets is projected to rise from 755 currently to 1,625 by 2045 as more people travel by air and links between cities and countries improve.
Boeing’s 2026 Commercial Market Outlook estimates that passenger traffic across Africa will increase by nearly six per cent each year up to 2045, placing the continent among the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
Meeting that demand will require African airlines to bring in 1,165 new aircraft during the period, with most of the planes expected to serve short and medium-distance routes.
Single-aisle aircraft will account for the largest share, with 870 expected to be delivered. Wide-body planes will make up another 240, while airlines are projected to receive 40 regional jets and 15 freighters.
The strong demand for single-aisle aircraft reflects the expected rise in domestic and regional travel as airlines add more connections between African cities.
For years, many routes within the continent have had limited air links, but the projected growth in passenger numbers is expected to encourage airlines to expand networks and provide more connections.
Travel within Africa is forecast to grow at a faster pace than the wider regional market, helped by stronger economic ties and improvements in connectivity.
The Middle East will also be an important part of the expansion, with traffic between Africa and the region expected to support additional routes and aircraft demand.
Europe is expected to retain its position as Africa’s biggest international passenger market through 2045.
The continued movement of people between the two regions is expected to be supported by trade and business ties, family links and increased investment in tourism.
“Africa’s aviation market is entering a period of sustained growth driven by improving connectivity, expanding intraregional travel and deeper economic ties,” said Shahab Matin, Boeing managing director of Commercial Marketing.
Matin said the industry would need to prepare for the expected rise in traffic by investing in areas beyond aircraft.
“Airlines, airports and aviation authorities will need to invest in infrastructure, digital systems, affordable access and skilled personnel to support the expanding industry.”
The expected aviation boom is also set to create a large market for services supporting aircraft and airlines.
Boeing puts the value of Africa’s aviation services market at $140 billion through 2045. The market will include maintenance, repair, overhaul and modifications, alongside digital solutions.
The expansion will also increase the need for skilled workers across the aviation industry.
African airlines and aviation service providers are expected to require about 75,000 more professionals over the next 20 years, including 22,000 pilots, 25,000 technicians and 28,000 cabin crew.
Cargo operations are also expected to grow alongside passenger travel.
Africa’s freighter fleet is forecast to increase from 60 aircraft to 150 by 2045 as e-commerce, logistics and high-value exports create greater demand for air cargo services.
The projected growth points to a wider expansion of Africa’s aviation industry, with airlines expected to increase passenger and cargo capacity as travel within the continent and links with international markets continue to grow.