A new ranking of airline on-time performance (OTP) for January 2025 has recognized an African carrier as the most punctual airline worldwide.
However, the report also highlighted EgyptAir as one of the least punctual airlines during the same period, underscoring varying performance levels across the continent’s aviation sector.
According to msn.com, the ranking, published by OAG Aviation, evaluates OTP based on the percentage of punctual flights that arrive on schedule.
According to OAG, a flight is considered on-time if it arrives within 15 minutes of its scheduled time.
The top three airlines—Safair, Star Flyer, and Fuji Dream Airlines—demonstrated strong OTP, highlighting operational excellence while the bottom three – Sunwing Airlines, EgyptAir, and InterCaribbean Airways—had the lowest on-time performance (OTP), highlighting significant operational delays and disruptions.
OTP is a key performance indicator for airlines and airports, serving as a measure of operational efficiency. Strong OTP not only enhances passenger experience but also provides airlines with a competitive advantage.
African aviation is enhancing flight punctuality through technology, improved scheduling, and better ground operations.
South Africa’s Safair, is consistently ranked among the world’s most punctual airlines, and is leading this transformation.
EgyptAir ranked 108th in the January 2025 OTP ranking with 52.9% on-time performance, far below Safair’s 94.2%.
Egypt’s Civil Aviation Minister, Sameh el-Hefny attributed the delays to unprecedented challenges, particularly the global supply chain crisis, which has slowed aircraft deliveries and disrupted fleet expansion plans through 2029.
“More than ten aircraft were due for delivery this year, but supply chain disruptions forced us to revise our plans. We now expect to receive only one aircraft in 2025,” he said.
Despite these setbacks, Hefny says EgyptAir remains committed to improving reliability and fulfilling its national role.
Impact of flight disruptions
Airline disruptions have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only passengers but also the broader aviation ecosystem.
A single flight delay or cancellation can set off a chain reaction, leading to missed connections, stranded travelers, and operational challenges for airports, suppliers, and ancillary services.
These disruptions extend beyond inconvenience, carrying substantial economic implications for airlines.
Airline disruptions cost the industry $60 billion annually, about 8% of global revenue (Wipro).
Efficient scheduling, crisis management, and technology are essential to reducing these losses. Beyond finances, frequent delays harm an airline’s reputation, leading to frustrated passengers, negative reviews, and lost trust.
Strong on-time performance is key to maintaining customer loyalty and competitiveness.
According to OAG data, the table below presents the top 10 airlines with the least on-time performance (OTP) for January 2025
