Africa Air Travel Set for Rapid Growth as Boeing Forecasts Doubling of Fleet

Africa's commercial aircraft fleet is expected to more than double by 2045, according to Boeing's forecast. The US planemaker predicts that the continent will require 1,165 airplane deliveries over the next two decades to reach a total of 1,625 aircraft.

The forecast shows that single-aisle aircraft, used mainly on domestic and regional routes, will account for three-quarters of the total deliveries, with 870 planes expected. Wide-body jets, typically used on longer international routes, are predicted to be delivered at a rate of 240 per year.

Africa's passenger traffic is expected to grow by 6.5% annually through 2045, driven by improving connectivity and expanding intraregional travel. The region's market is entering a period of sustained growth, according to Shahab Matin, Boeing's managing director commercial marketing Africa and Middle East.

The aviation services market in Africa is expected to be worth $140bn over the 2026-2045 period, requiring an additional 75,000 workers, including 22,000 pilots, 25,000 technicians, and 28,000 cabin crew members. The region's cargo fleet is expected to rise to 150 freighters from 60.