Potential and Challenges in Africa’s Growing Business Aviation Market – African Business Innovation

Aviation plays a vital role in economic and social development across Africa. According to IATA, the sector contributes US$75 billion to GDP and supports 8.1 million jobs – equivalent to one in every 61 jobs. The business aviation market is becoming an ever more important part of that development. While accurate figures for the sector are challenging, Statista projected that revenue in the African business jet market will reach US$1.05 billion in revenue by 2027. Falcon Aerospace valued the current business aviation market at US$1.09 billion and suggested a projected compound annual growth rate of 11.98% will boost the sector to US$2.14 billion by 2030. 

However, business aviation in Africa is notoriously difficult to quantify, due to the sheer diversity of the continent, the sector, and the players within it. There is growth in the use of traditional business jets, driven by corporate users, family offices, government agencies, and non-profit organisations that rely on private aircraft for business, humanitarian missions, emergency evacuations and development projects. In parallel, emerging entrepreneurs are utilising versatile jets capable of operating under challenging conditions to access areas with limited infrastructure.

Yet, African business aviation extends far beyond corporate jets, as Dawit Lemma, Founder and Managing Director of Krimson and Chairperson of the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) explained: “African business aviation encompasses the Cessna 172 enabling famers to transport goods from fields to city trading posts; the anti-poaching units patrolling with helicopters and small fixed-wings; medevac teams serving rural communities; tourists visiting game reserves and beach resorts; humanitarian teams reaching remote communities; and increasingly remotely piloted aerial systems, mapping farms, conducting surveys, mining and infrastructure inspections and providing essential medical support.” 

The diverse strengths, capabilities, and demands of more than 50 nations also create both potential and challenges. Lemma outlined the regional distinctions: “Southern Africa remains the most mature market, supported by stable regulation, robust infrastructure, and experienced operators. West Africa demonstrates high demand for the convenience of business aviation, with economic growth driven by the oil, gas, and energy sectors. While it remains limited by regulatory complexity and infrastructure gaps, key aviation hubs, including Lagos, Accra, and Dakar, continue to evolve into reliable centres of business aviation activity. 

“East Africa is rising, propelled by tourism, humanitarian missions, and regional institutions such as the African Union. Addis Ababa and Nairobi anchor a dynamic yet consolidating market. The northern countries benefit from tourism and wealthy private users. Nations such as Morocco are investing in and promoting its labour, property and workforce benefits, but bureaucracy and legacy systems often constrain agility.”

While each region follows its own trajectory, all are moving towards greater professionalism, improved infrastructure, and recognition of business aviation as an economic force multiplier. This movement is underpinned by AfBAA, which is working to ensure that all subsectors are represented and that business aviation continues to fuel commerce, health, and security across industries and nations. 

There are challenges, as Lemma explained: “Flight administration and trip planning can be complex. Lengthy permit processes, a lack of regulatory liberalisation in some countries, and inconsistencies in established operational guidelines can be confusing. Fee structures, airport opening hours, fuel pricing, lack of transparency in quoting, and access to the right type of ground handling can make operations challenging, particularly for international operators.”

In addition, outdated perception is a consistent threat, making financiers wary of committing to aircraft financing. Insurers apply restrictive registration mandates, and cross-border banking regulations can slow international transfers. To sustain growth, Africa must harmonize regulations, invest in infrastructure beyond major hubs, and expand its pool of skilled aviation professionals. Yet, the AfBAA team remains optimistic.

Lemma added: “AfBAA was created to establish business aviation as an asset that is recognised, valued, and supported by governments, regulators, and industry leaders across Africa. We aim to add value for our existing and future members by providing access, knowledge, and data that can enhance and augment their daily operations. We want to safeguard good governance across all areas to ensure the future stability and longevity of African business aviation.

“We are optimistic and believe that a modern AfBAA can support the industry and help it grow. The industry drives job creation, both directly and indirectly, creating long-term, secure career opportunities for Africans and expatriates. It directly employs aviation professionals, such as pilots, aircraft technicians, aircraft operations and maintenance teams, ground handlers, and managers. Also, it creates opportunities for supporting roles in related industries such as tourism, logistics, and commerce. The growth of business aviation is a force multiplier; it leads to demand for new infrastructure, training programs, and support services. Investment in local training facilities and programs is expanding the pool of skilled aviation professionals within Africa. 

“An increase in business aviation activity necessitates the development and expansion of airport facilities, including hangars, FBOs, and helipads. More jobs in construction, airport management, and security follow. It is a ripple effect, as money is spent within the broader economy,” he concluded.