Africa's Air Connectivity Doubles, Routes Soar to 124: AFCAC

The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) has reported a significant surge in intra-African air connectivity, a development that promises to reshape travel and trade across the continent. The number of air routes operating solely within Africa has more than doubled, jumping from 59 in 2023 to an impressive 124 by March 2026. This expansion is a testament to the growing efforts to enhance regional integration and facilitate easier movement for people and goods.

Furthermore, overall air connectivity on the continent has seen a substantial increase, rising from 14.5% in 2022 to 23% as of December 2025. This growth is further bolstered by the granting of 22 new fifth freedom traffic rights, which allow airlines to carry revenue-paying passengers between foreign countries as part of a service connecting to their home country. Such rights are crucial for developing new routes and increasing flight frequencies, making air travel more accessible and affordable for Africans.

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intra-African air routes have more than doubled, rising from 59 in 2023 to 124 as of March 2026.

From an African perspective, this expansion is more than just an increase in flight numbers; it represents a vital step towards realizing the continent's economic potential. Improved air connectivity is a cornerstone of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) initiative, aiming to create a single market for goods and services. As AFCAC Secretary-General Funke Adeyemi highlighted, this growth is a positive indicator for regional development, potentially unlocking new opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. The focus now shifts to sustaining this momentum and ensuring that the benefits of enhanced air travel reach all corners of the continent.

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connectivity increased from 14.5 per cent in 2022 to 23 per cent as of December 2025, including 22 new fifth freedom traffic rights.