Africa's Air Fleet Set to Nearly Double by 2045

Africa's commercial aircraft fleet is expected to more than double by 2045, according to Boeing's 2026 Commercial Market Outlook for Africa. The continent's young and increasingly urban population, expanding middle class, and improving infrastructure will support long-term growth, with passenger traffic projected to grow by nearly 6% annually through 2045.

African airlines are expected to require nearly 1,200 new airplanes through 2045, with single-aisle jets accounting for about 75% of deliveries. Widebody demand is also set to more than double as airlines modernize their fleets and expand long-haul networks. The freighter fleet is forecast to increase from 60 aircraft to 150 as logistics, e-commerce, and high-value export markets develop.

Boeing's Commercial Services Market Outlook forecasts a $140 billion market through 2045 for maintenance, repair, overhaul, and modifications (MRO) and digital solutions. The company also projects that African airlines will require 75,000 additional aviation professionals as fleets and route networks expand, including 22,000 pilots, 25,000 technicians, and 28,000 cabin crew.