Africa’s air cargo traffic increased by 2.8% in July 2026 compared with the same period a year earlier, even as airlines continued to face pressure from elevated jet fuel prices, according to the African Airlines Association (AFRAA).
AFRAA’s latest performance update showed that African imports outpaced exports across most of the continent’s sub-regions during the period.
Eastern Africa was the exception, recording higher export volumes than imports, according to the report.
The association said the market share of African airlines in cargo transportation remains an important strategic focus as the continent seeks to strengthen its aviation industry and improve intra-African trade connectivity.
Passenger-related indicators also recorded growth. AFRAA reported that passenger revenues for African carriers increased by 5.6% in July 2026 compared with June 2025, while Revenue Passenger Kilometres rose by an estimated 5.8% year-on-year.
However, rising fuel costs remain a major operating consideration for carriers.
As of the week ending August 21, 2026, the global average jet fuel price stood at $163.87 per barrel, representing a 3.1% weekly increase.
The average price for Africa was even higher at $169.01 per barrel, underscoring the cost pressures facing airlines operating in the region.
AFRAA’s data also showed that African airlines continued to expand capacity, with total seat capacity rising 8.8% in August 2026 compared with August 2025 and intra-African capacity increasing 10.5%.
The combination of rising passenger demand, expanding capacity and growing cargo traffic points to continued activity across Africa’s aviation sector, while fuel costs and the competitive position of African carriers remain key industry concerns.
