Africa’s aviation industry is experiencing a remarkable rebound, driven by increasing international travel, expanding airline networks, and strengthened global connections. One of the standout trends is the Africa–Asia corridor, now the fastest-growing international route linking major African hubs to booming Asian markets.
Africa’s Air Travel Outlook for 2025
Air passenger traffic across Africa is expected to reach 113 million in 2025, up from 98 million in 2024, a 15.3% year-on-year increase. This surge is powered by:
- Growing tourism across top destinations.
- Rising business travel as Africa integrates into global trade.
- Expanded airline connectivity within and outside the continent.
The 10 Busiest Airports in Africa (July 2025)
These airports lead the continent by average daily scheduled departures:
- Johannesburg International (JNB) – ~249 flights/day
- Cairo International (CAI) – ~242 flights/day
- Addis Ababa Bole (ADD) – ~190 flights/day
- Mohammed V, Casablanca (CMN) – ~114 flights/day
- Jomo Kenyatta, Nairobi (NBO) – ~108 flights/day
- Houari Boumediene, Algiers (ALG) – ~102 flights/day
- Cape Town (CPT) – ~102 flights/day
- Murtala Muhammed, Lagos (LOS) – ~99 flights/day
- Zanzibar (ZNZ) – ~92 flights/day
- Dar-es-Salaam (DAR) – ~84 flights/day
Airport Spotlight: Julius Nyerere International (Dar-es-Salaam – DAR)
Dar-es-Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) has emerged as a key East African hub:
- History: Renamed in 2006 to honor Tanzania’s first President, Julius Nyerere.
- Connectivity: Serves 37 destinations through 24 airlines.
- Performance: Climbed from 12th in 2024 (75 flights/day) to 10th in 2025 (84 flights/day).
- Key Routes: Zanzibar, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza, and Mafia Island.
- Major Carriers: Air Tanzania and Auric Air.
Its rise reflects Tanzania’s growing influence in tourism, trade, and regional connectivity.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Digitally Connected Cities in Africa in 2025
What This Growth Means for Africa
The resurgence of air travel across Africa signals:
- Economic recovery and expansion.
- A thriving tourism industry.
- Stronger integration with global markets.
To sustain this momentum, African nations must continue to invest in airport infrastructure, modernize their fleets, and foster regional partnerships.
With skies busier than ever, Africa’s aviation future is set for even greater heights.
