Africa passenger demand hits record in 2025 as per IATA
Africa’s air travel demand rose strongly in 2025, with RPKs up 9.4% against an 8.3% rise in capacity and a load factor of 75.3% – a record for the region but still the lowest globally, according to IATA. December capped the year with demand up 12.8% and capacity up 14.1% year‑on‑year, resulting in a monthly load factor of 75.6%, while the global load factor reached a record 83.7%.
International traffic for African airlines increased 7.8% in 2025, with capacity up 6.5% and load factor improving 0.9 ppt to 74.9%. IATA flagged ongoing supply chain pressures – delayed aircraft and engines plus limited maintenance capacity – driving industry cost increases estimated above $11 billion and constraining growth, even as airlines kept aircraft in service longer and filled more seats. Connectivity continues to build into 2026, including Air Tanzania’s new three‑weekly Dar es Salaam – Accra link launched on 28 January, supporting East–West travel and tourism flows.
Source: IATA