The aviation sector in Africa has shown promising signs of recovery in the first quarter of 2024, as evidenced by a surge in passenger demand. According to recent data from the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), the industry has made significant strides in bouncing back from the challenges faced in the previous year.
Despite this positive trajectory, the recovery has not been uniform across all regions. Varying government policies and economic conditions have led to disparities in growth rates among different areas. Africa’s aviation market, accounting for just 2% of the global sector, has long been plagued by challenges such as financial instability, political interference, and ineffective management, hindering the full realization of its economic and demographic potential.
In 2023, African airlines transported a total of 48.2 million passengers, with the following carriers recording the highest passenger traffic:
1. Ethiopian Airlines – 11,327 passengers
2. Egyptair – 8,200 passengers
3. Safair – 6,649 passengers
4. Royal Air Maroc – 5,684 passengers
5. Air Algerie – 4,681 passengers
The increase in passenger traffic can be attributed to the rise in demand following the relaxation of travel restrictions post-COVID-19 pandemic. The first quarter of 2024 saw a notable 8% growth in passenger revenue compared to the same period in 2023, indicating a strong recovery momentum. The introduction of new routes and increased flight frequencies have also contributed to the growth of African airlines.
Furthermore, the performance metrics for ASKs (Available Seat Kilometers) and RPKs (Revenue Passenger Kilometers) in 2024 surpassed the figures from 2023, with an 18% and 19% increase, respectively. In terms of regional performance, Northern Africa led in passenger traffic, accounting for 40.4% of total continental traffic in Q1 2024, while Southern Africa contributed 21.4% to the overall traffic during the same period.
Overall, the outlook for African aviation in 2024 appears promising, with continued growth and recovery on the horizon. The industry’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges bode well for its future prospects.
