By: Reuters

Boeing forecast on Thursday (September 3) that Africa's commercial aircraft fleet will more than double by 2045, driven by strong passenger demand and economic growth across the continent.

Presenting the company's 2026 Commercial Market Outlook in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, Boeing's Managing Director Commercial Marketing Africa and Middle East, Shahab Matin, said Africa was expected to see passenger traffic growth of 5.8% annually and fleet growth of 3.9%, both above global averages.

He said demand for air travel would continue to be supported by strong underlying economic and demographic trends.

Boeing expects Africa's fleet to grow to 1,625 aircraft by 2045 from 755 in 2025, requiring 1,165 new deliveries. The company also forecasts significant growth in cargo operations, with the freighter fleet expanding as airlines convert passenger aircraft for freight use. Boeing estimates Africa's aviation services market will be worth $140 billion by 2045.

(Camera, editing: Nelson Aruya. Production: Mukelwa Hlatshwayo. Writing: Mukelwa Hlatshwayo, Vincent Mumo Nzilani)