The African aviation industry is experiencing praiseworthy growth, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. This expansion has increased the number of airline operators across the continent.
A comprehensive overview of African countries with the largest domestic airline fleet as of 2024 highlights the major airlines due to the size of the fleet and its strategic development.
Top African national airlines by fleet size
1. Ethiopian Airlines – Ethiopia
Fleet Size: 156 Destinations: 161 Passengers, 68 Cargo Alliance: Overview of Star Alliance: Ethiopian Airlines stands as Africa's largest airline in both fleet size and destination. The airline operates a diverse fleet, including the Airbus A350, Boeing 737, 767S, 777S, 787S, and Bombardier Dash Q-400 aircraft. Ethiopian airlines continue to expand their global footprint with plans to double their fleet and route networks by 2035.
Fleet Size: 78 Aircraft Destinations: 102 Alliance: Star Alliance Overview: Egypt, Egypt, Egypt, Egypt, the Egyptian airline of Egypt, offers 102 destinations around the world and operates a fleet of 78 aircraft. The airline has recently expanded its fleet with orders for 18 Boeing 737-8 aircraft, aiming to modernize and strengthen its services.
3. AirAlgérie – Algeria
Fleet Size: 56 Aircraft Destinations: 78 Overview: Air Algery operates a fleet of 56 aircraft, connecting 78 destinations in 28 countries. Airlines play an important role in connecting Algeria with various regions, including Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
4. Royal Air Marock – Morocco
Fleet Size: 52 Aircraft Destinations: 89 Alliance: One World Overview: The Royal Airmallock (RAM), a Moroccan flag carrier, operates a fleet of 52 aircraft, offering 89 destinations in Africa, Europe, America and the Middle East. The airline has an ambitious plan to beat the fleet to four 200 aircraft by 2037, collaborating with Morocco's goal of attracting 26 million tourists by 2030.
5. Kenya Airlines – Kenya
Fleet Size: 34 Aircraft Destinations: 44 Alliance: SkyTeam Overview: Kenya Airlines, the national airline in Kenya, operates a fleet of 34 aircraft and connects 44 destinations. The airline serves as a key player for East African Airlines, providing extensive connectivity in Africa and Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Conclusion
Ethiopian Airlines leads Africa's aviation division with its largest fleet and wide global reach. Other domestic airlines such as Egypt Airlines, Air Algery, Royal Airmalloc and Kenya Airlines also play a key role in connecting Africa with the world. Continuing fleet expansion and strategic partnerships make these airlines poised to enhance connectivity and global integration within Africa.
