Africa's Aviation Market Set for Doubling by 2045

Africa's commercial aviation market is on the cusp of a significant expansion, driven by a growing youth demographic, rapid urbanization, and expanding trade networks. According to Boeing's latest Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), the continent's commercial aircraft fleet is projected to more than double over the next two decades, expanding from 755 active planes in 2025 to 1,625 by 2045.

To meet this trajectory, African carriers will require an estimated 1,165 new airplane deliveries over the 20-year period. Single-aisle jets will account for roughly 75 percent (870 units) of total new deliveries, reflecting a shift toward higher frequencies on intra-African corridors.

The growth is also expected to trigger massive demand across aviation support infrastructure and human capital. The region will need to train and recruit 22,000 pilots, 25,000 technical engineers/mechanics, and 28,000 cabin crew members to safely operate and maintain the expanded fleet.