African airlines are expected to carry 113 million passengers in 2025, representing a 15.3% increase on the year prior, a new study by the African Airline Association (AFRAA) has found.
In June, intra-African routes saw a slight increase of 0.1% in seat capacity, driven by new route introductions, network expansion, and aircraft upsizing initiatives. However, airline seat capacity across Africa decreased by 3% in June compared to the same month in 2024.
The report found that as of April 2025, African airlines accounted for 52.4% of international capacity, including both regional and intercontinental operations, while non-African carriers represented 47.6%. For intercontinental services, African carriers held a 36.3% capacity share, with non-African operators commanding 63.7%.
In terms of total international traffic - regional and intercontinental - African carriers represented 49% in April 2025, while non-African carriers accounted for 51%. Specifically for intercontinental traffic, African carriers held a 35.3% share, compared to 64.7% for non-African airlines.
Passenger revenues for African carriers also showed strong growth, with April 2025 recording a 19% increase compared to April 2024.