10 African countries that have the highest number of airlines in 2024

With vast distances between countries and cities, coupled with limited road and rail infrastructure, and challenging terrain, airlines have proliferated the mobility sector in Africa.

Airlines on the continent range from legacy carriers with global reach to nimble regional operators serving specific markets. Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir, South African Airways, Kenya Airways, and Royal Air Maroc are among the continent’s leading airlines.

Despite the immense potential of the African aviation market, airlines face numerous challenges, including infrastructure limitations, regulatory complexities, and fierce competition.

However, amidst these challenges, there are also opportunities for innovation, and growth, driven by economic development, increasing urbanization, and the growing demand for air travel.

Boeing forecasts a surge in intra-African passenger traffic over the next two decades, with numbers expected to skyrocket more than fourfold. This growth trajectory positions Africa’s aviation sector among the fastest-growing worldwide.

To accommodate this expansion, more airlines are required on the continent. In Africa, the number of airlines varies from one country to another.

According to Planespotters, Nigeria has the highest number of airlines on the continent, with 87 carriers. Following closely are South Africa with 70 airlines and Kenya with 64.

Below are 10 African countries that have the highest number of airlines in 2024, according to Planespotters: