The African aviation industry has experienced notable growth over the years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. This expansion has resulted in an increase in the number of airline operators across the African continent.
Over the next few years and decades, trends indicate that there will be a surge in intra-African passenger travel, with numbers expected to increase to more than four times the current rate.
Africa’s air traffic growth rate is projected to exceed 7.4%, positioning it as the third highest among global regions. This rate surpasses the global average rate of 6.1%.
The increasing demand for travel to other nations has prompted the introduction of new routes, enhanced flight frequencies, and the establishment of new airlines to meet the growing needs of the African market.
In this article, we shall take an in-depth look at the top 5 largest African airlines as ranked by their fleet size:
1. Ethiopian Airlines – 135
With a fleet size of 135, Ethiopian Airlines stands as Africa’s largest and most popular airline.
The airline, established in 1935, is privileged to be one of the few airlines in Africa to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a picture of class, comfort and luxury flying experience.
Ethiopian Airlines is widely acclaimed for its outstanding service and top-notch facilities, earning it the coveted 4-star rating from Skytrax.
2. Egypt Air – 71
Egypt’s national airline, EgyptAir, commands a fleet of 71 aircraft ranging from Boeing to Airbus models. It was the world’s seventh airline to be established in May 1932.
The airline boasts a global reach extending over 80 destinations, ranging from Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, EgyptAir.
3. Air Algerie – 55
The Algerian flag carrier has a fleet of 55 aircraft which operate from the Houari Boumedienne Airport in Algeria.
They schedule international trips to 39 destinations in 28 countries from Europe, North America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
Air Algerie further caters to 32 domestic airports and has a fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
4. Royal Air Maroc – 50
Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the national pride of Morocco is one of Africa’s prominent airlines, boasting a fleet of 50 aircraft.
Established in 1953, the Royal Air Marcco operates in 90 destinations across 50 countries connecting Morocco’s Casablanca to the world.
5. Kenya Airways – 34
Known as the Pride of East Africa, Kenya Airways closes the list of the top 5 airlines in terms of fleet size, with 34 aircraft.
It operates within domestic, regional and international spaces with destinations varying from Africa, Middle East, Asia and Europe.