Leading the list again is Malaysia's AirAsia, which maintains dominance in the budget travel category.
Here is the complete list of SkyTrax's top low-cost airlines for 2024:
Rank Air Country Country 1 AirAsia Malaysia 2 Volteas Spain 3 Flynus Saudi Arabia 4 Transvia France France 5 Indigo India 6 Vueling Airlines Spain 7 Air Baltic Latvia 8 Iberia Express Spain 9 Ryan Air Ireland 10 EasyJet UK
SkyTrax highlighted these airlines for customer satisfaction, value for money, punctuality and service on-flight. Many of the top airlines also stood out for regional connectivity and modern fleet upgrades.
What does that mean for African travelers?
While none of the airlines on this list are based in Africa, the rankings serve as a benchmark for African airlines seeking to improve affordability, accessibility and service excellence. The growing popularity of budget travel across the continent highlights the need for less competitive, low-cost options within Africa.
Travelers from countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa often rely on international, low-cost airlines when flying to Europe, the Middle East or Asia. Flynus, for example, has become a popular option for West African pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia, while Flynuda offers a route connecting several African cities to the Middle East with reasonable fares.
Low-cost aviation opportunities in Africa
A huge gap remains in the rise of homemade, low-cost African carriers worldwide. Regional airlines such as FastJet, Jambojet and Fly540 are making a commendable effort, but infrastructure and regulatory challenges still limit scalability and international awareness.
Conclusion
SkyTrax's 2024 list highlights the growing importance of budget airlines in shaping modern travel.
African airlines are not yet represented by the global best, but the continental aviation sector could evolve and compete, especially if it utilizes its vast, underserved travel market.
