Africa's Aircraft Fleet Set to Surge to 1,625 Planes by 2045

Africa's commercial aircraft fleet is expected to more than double by 2045, according to Boeing's latest forecast. The US planemaker predicts that Africa's fleet will grow to 1,625 aircraft in 2045 from 755 in 2025, requiring 1,165 airplane deliveries over the next two decades.

The majority of these deliveries, around three-quarters, will be single-aisle aircraft used mainly on domestic and regional routes. Boeing expects deliveries of 240 wide-body jets for longer international routes and 15 cargo planes.

Africa's passenger traffic is expected to grow 6.5% annually through 2045, while Africa-Middle East traffic would expand 7.1% a year, the fastest rate among the region's major travel markets. Traffic between Africa and Europe is projected to grow 3.4% annually.

The region's cargo fleet is expected to rise to 150 freighters from 60, supported by growth in logistics, e-commerce, and exports. Boeing estimates that Africa's aviation services market will be worth $140 billion over the 2026-2045 period.