Africa is becoming one of the largest aviation growth market, particularly after the pandemic-related disruptions. Major airlines of the continent are playing a major role in expanding their networks, replacing older aircraft with new-generation fleets, and establishing airline partnerships and codeshare agreements.

There have been forecasts for a surge in intra-African passenger traffic over the next two decades, with numbers expected to skyrocket more than fourfold.

The continent's air traffic growth has been projected to soar at a rate of 7.4%, ranking as the third highest among global regions. This surpasses the global average growth rate of 6.1%.

The surge in demand has led to the emergence of new routes, increased flight frequencies, and the establishment of new airlines to cater to the growing market.

Below are the 5 largest airlines in Africa by fleet size in 2024:

1. Ethiopian Airlines - 154

  • Founded: 21 December 1945; 78 years ago
  • Commenced operations: 8 April 1946; 77 years ago.
  • Destinations: 155 passenger, 68 cargo[22]
  • Parent company: Ethiopian Govt. (100%)
  • Headquarters: Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Established in 1945, Ethiopian Airlines, the flag carrier of Ethiopia, stands as the continent's largest and most renowned airline. It is one of the few airlines to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which offers passengers a more comfortable and eco-friendly flying experience. Ethiopian Airlines is celebrated for its exceptional service and top-notch facilities, earning it a coveted 4-star rating from Skytrax.

2. Egypt Air - 78

  • Destinations: 102
  • Parent company:  Egyptair Holding Company (Government of Egypt)
  • Headquarters: Egyptair Administrative Complex Cairo, Egypt.
  • Commenced operations: July 1933; 90 years ago

EgyptAir, Egypt's national flag carrier, operates a fleet of 78 aircraft, including a diverse range of aircraft models, including Boeing and Airbus jets. Founded in May 1932, it was the seventh airline globally. It serves over 80 destinations worldwide, including Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

3. Air Algerie - 56

  • Destinations: 78
  • Parent company: Government of Algeria
  • Headquarters: Algiers, Algeria
  • Founded: 15 March 1947

With flights operating from Houari Boumedienne Airport, Air Algérie operates scheduled international services to 39 destinations in 28 countries in Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, as well as domestic services to 32 airports. Air Algerie boasts a diverse fleet that includes a mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

4. Royal Air Maroc - 57

  • Founded: July 1953; 70 years ago
  • Destinations: 89
  • Parent company: Moroccan Government
  • Headquarters: Casablanca-Anfa Airport, Casablanca, Morocco

With a fleet size of 50 aircraft, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the national carrier of Morocco, stands as one of Africa's largest airlines. It was founded in 1953 and has since played a huge role in connecting Morocco with the world. Royal Air Maroc operates flights to over 90 destinations in over 50 countries. From its hub in Casablanca, it offers connections to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas.

5. Kenya Airways – 34

  • Destinations: 44
  • Headquarters: Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya
  • Founded: 22 January 1977; 47 years ago
  • Commenced operations: 4 February 1977

Kenya Airways, often hailed as the pride of East Africa completes the lineup of Africa's largest airlines in terms of fleet size. This carrier operates a comprehensive network of domestic, regional, and international flights, connecting passengers to destinations across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

Established in 1977 following the dissolution of East African Airways, Kenya Airways initially operated as a government-owned entity until its privatization in 1995. Presently, it functions as a public-private partnership, with the government of Kenya holding the largest stake at 48.9%.