Boeing forecasts cargo-focused growth in Africa

• Air cargo is set to play a critical role in Africa’s aviation growth over the next two decades, with Boeing projecting the region’s commercial fleet will more than double by 2044.
• While single-aisle aircraft will dominate new deliveries, the company forecasts a steady rise in dedicated freighter demand and widebody growth to support the continent’s expanding trade, logistics, and export activity.

Africa’s growing trade and logistics activity is expected to contribute significantly to a doubling of the region’s commercial aircraft fleet by 2044, according to Boeing’s latest 2025 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO). The forecast projects the continent’s fleet will expand to 1,680 aircraft, with dedicated freighter demand and widebody growth supporting the region’s long-term cargo capacity needs.

While single-aisle aircraft will make up the majority of new deliveries, Boeing expects 10 freighter aircraft to be added to Africa’s fleet over the next 20 years, alongside 240 widebodies -many of which will carry bellyhold cargo on long-haul routes. This trend reflects rising demand for regional and international connectivity for goods as well as people.

“Aviation is a catalyst for Africa’s economic expansion and intra-continental connection, building on industry growth we’ve seen across the region over the last 20 years,” said Shahab Matin, Boeing’s managing director of Commercial Marketing, Middle East and Africa.

“More efficient, versatile airplanes – paired with investments and strategies to make air travel more accessible to more Africans – will unlock further growth opportunities for the region’s airlines and hubs.”

Boeing also anticipates a strong aftermarket and services demand valued at approximately $130 billion, supporting aircraft maintenance, operational resilience, and supply chain continuity across the continent. The expansion will create workforce demand for around 74,000 new aviation personnel, including pilots, maintenance technicians, and cabin crew – critical for both passenger and cargo operations.