Long-haul giants like Emirates and Qatar Airways often steal the spotlight, but it is the local airlines that truly maintain their connection, especially in Africa, where local airlines bridge the gap between major cities, remote areas and burgeoning economic hubs.
On a continent where even travelers with the most seasoned geography and infrastructure can challenge themselves, local airlines play a key role in unlocking mobility, trade and tourism.
At the 2025 World Airline Awards, SkyTrax once again honored the best aviation in the world, based on votes from millions of passengers of over 100 nationalities. And when it comes to regional excellence in Africa, Rwandare has achieved the top spot and has earned the title of Africa's best regional airline.
With its Kigali hub, Rwandare has built a reputation for reliability, safety and customer service, steadily expanding its reach in the East, Central and South Africa. Modern fleets and commitment to punctuality have become a favorite among travelers navigating local routes.
Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines has continued to lead the Pack overall, securing the title of Africa's best airline for the seventh consecutive year. It is no longer a regional player, but thanks to its intercontinental network, its domestic and within Africa routes remain the most efficient and widespread on the continent.
Another outstanding Air Mauritius climbed second in the Skytrax Africa rankings, recognising the strong quality of service and connection that connects the island nation to mainland Africa, Asia and Europe.
Customer satisfaction at the heart of SkyTrax's rankings has proven that African regional airlines can provide world-class services without flying around the ocean.
Below are the best regional airlines in Africa in 2025, according to the latest rankings
Ranked Airlines 1 Rwandare 2 Royal Air Maloc 3 Air Link 4 Nile Air 5 Tunizu A 6 Ram Mozambique Airlines 7 Air Senegal 8 Uganda Air 9 Air Botswana 10 Aspi Airlines
