Boeing Forecasts Africa's Commercial Fleet to Double by 2045

Africa's commercial aviation market is poised for significant growth over the next two decades, driven by a booming 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 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.

Shahab Matin, Boeing's Managing Director of Commercial Marketing for Africa and the Middle East, noted that 'Africa's aviation sector is entering a period of sustained growth driven by improving connectivity, expanding intraregional travel, and deeper economic ties.'