Africa's Air Traffic Represents Just 2% of Global Total

According to a report by the Atlantic Council titled "Opening Africa’s Skies to Trade, Growth, and Jobs," Africa's population, which constitutes 18% of the global total, accounts for only 2% of global air traffic. The report identifies high costs and inconvenience of air travel as primary barriers to the continent's aviation market development.

It states that less than 20% of African airline traffic operates on intra-African routes, compared to about 60% in Europe. The report highlights that over 70% of Africa's air service agreements are restrictive, limiting flight frequencies and routes.

It recommends implementing the African Union’s Single African Air Transport Market and removing capacity restrictions to enhance connectivity. The African Union unveiled a $30 billion plan in October 2025 to modernize airports and airspace systems over the next decade.

Additionally, the African Development Bank appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in May 2026 to lead a $7 billion Integrated Aviation Transformation Programme for Africa.