Africa's aviation industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for better connections within the continent and to the rest of the world. According to OAG Aviation's 2024 Busiest Flight Routes Report, the Cairo-Jeddah route has emerged as the busiest international flight route from Africa, with over 5.4 million scheduled seats.

The report highlights the vital role Africa plays in connecting major travel hubs across the Middle East and beyond. The top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024 are dominated by African airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, EgyptAir, and South African Airways. These airlines have established key hubs, including Addis Ababa, which has become a major connection point between Africa and the rest of the world.

The Cairo-Riyadh route follows closely behind, serving more than 3.1 million seats. Other busy routes include Cairo-Dubai, Cairo-Madinah, and Cairo-Kuwait, demonstrating the strong demand for air travel between Africa and the Middle East. The report defines "busiest routes" as those with the most airline seats available in both directions, providing a comprehensive view of route performance and emerging trends in international aviation.

The growth of Africa's aviation industry can be attributed to the rising middle class and improved tourism infrastructure, driving increased demand for air travel. However, the sector still faces challenges such as high fuel prices, limited intercontinental flights, and regulatory hurdles. Despite these challenges, the potential for growth is significant, and Africa is poised to become a major player in international air travel.

The top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024 are:

As Africa's skies continue to get busier, the continent is on its way to becoming a major player in international air travel. The growth of the aviation industry is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy, driving business, trade, and tourism.