African airlines may be benefiting from growing passenger demand, but the continent’s carriers continue to struggle with weak profitability, prompting industry leaders to call for urgent reforms in financing, fleet acquisition, and market access.
The concern dominated discussions at the 14th Aviation Stakeholders Convention organized by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and hosted by South African Airways in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Industry executives heard that African carriers are projected to generate a combined net profit of only $200 million in 2026, translating to an average profit of just $1.30 per passenger. This compares unfavorably with the global industry average of $7.90 per passenger, highlighting the financial pressures confronting airlines across the continent.
AFRAA Secretary General, Abdérahmane Berthé, said African airlines continue to grapple with rising operating costs, currency depreciation, supply chain disruptions, infrastructure deficiencies, aircraft shortages, and restrictive regulatory frameworks that limit growth opportunities.
“The ambition is to build an African aviation industry that connects this continent affordably and safely while remaining commercially sustainable,” Berthé said.
READ: Aviation: Africa’s Passenger Traffic Expected to Double to 300 Million by 2040, AFRAA Says
A major focus of the convention was fleet acquisition and financing, with airline executives examining strategies for accessing aircraft at affordable rates amid global shortages and increasing leasing costs.
During a dedicated consultative session led by aviation finance experts, delegates explored network-driven fleet planning, the balance between acquiring new and pre-owned aircraft, and innovative financing structures available to African carriers, including support from regional development finance institutions.
Industry stakeholders also stressed the importance of implementing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), arguing that greater market liberalization would improve airline revenues by increasing connectivity and passenger traffic across the continent.
Delegates further identified digital transformation, loyalty programmes, cargo expansion, and operational efficiency as critical tools for improving airline profitability.
Experts noted that Africa’s growing population, expanding middle class, and rising demand for air travel present significant opportunities, but warned that airlines must adopt more sustainable business models to convert traffic growth into financial success.
The convention concluded with a call for stronger collaboration among governments, financiers, manufacturers, regulators, and airlines to create an environment where African carriers can achieve long-term profitability while supporting the continent’s economic development.
