NAIROBI, Kenya, April 4 – African airlines have experienced a recovery in performance, surpassing pre-Covid levels in both capacity and passenger traffic, as reported by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA).
The region saw a 12.6 percent increase in the number of seats offered, from 14.3 million in March 2019 to 16.1 million in March 2024, and a 7.7 percent increase in ASKs, with African carriers accounting for significant shares of international and intercontinental capacity.
Passenger traffic for African operators in 2024 is estimated to reach around 98 million.
In terms of the capacity split between African and non-African operators on both regional and intercontinental routes, AFRAA estimates 50.7 percent and 49.3 percent, respectively.
Despite continent-wide intra-African connectivity exceeding pre-Covid levels, major hubs like Johannesburg and Casablanca are still below 2019 levels.
Revenue performance for African airlines has, however, improved, with a 14.75 percent growth estimated between November 2023 and January 2024.
In regulatory and industry affairs, South Africa implemented revised Air Traffic Service Charges, while Ghana’s proposal for a passenger fee at Kotoka International Airport faced criticism and suspension following intervention.
Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), potentially boosting intra-African connectivity and revenue growth.
Sierra Leone’s Consumer Protection Unit aims to harmonize positions with ECOWAS partners, emphasizing the importance of balancing passenger rights with sustainable air services.
Positive developments include Tanzania assembling its first Skyleader 600 aircraft, potentially marking Africa’s entry into aircraft assembly and manufacturing.
Ecuador’s new tourism law serves as a model for reducing taxes and promoting aviation development, which African countries could emulate.
Additionally, collaboration between ICAO and the Aviation Working Group aims to enhance cross-border aircraft transferability, promoting efficiency and safety in aircraft leasing and financing.
