The African air cargo industry is expanding as increased investment enhances its efficiency. Over the past 15 years, Magma Aviation has played a role in shaping this sector, with CEO Peter Kerins offering insights into its evolution.
Rising Demand for Air Cargo in Africa
Data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that global air cargo demand rose by 3.2% in January 2025 compared to the previous year. In Africa, airlines experienced an 8.5% increase in cargo demand in 2024, with continued but slower growth expected in 2025.
Africa’s strategic location between Asia, Europe, and the Americas gives it a logistical advantage. Nairobi remains the busiest cargo airport on the continent, followed by Cairo and Johannesburg, with Addis Ababa, Casablanca, and Lagos emerging as key hubs.
A growing middle class and the expansion of e-commerce are also driving demand for air freight. The African e-commerce market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.46% from 2025 to 2029, reaching an estimated value of $56.03 billion.
“With the rise in online shopping, there is a greater need for efficient logistics solutions. Air cargo is preferred for high-value and time-sensitive goods,” Mr Kerins said.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is expected to increase air cargo demand by facilitating intra-African trade. Many airports are upgrading infrastructure to accommodate higher volumes, with Cairo International Airport undergoing significant expansion to position itself as a global aviation hub.
Growth in Cargo Shipments
The export of perishable goods, particularly cut flowers, fresh produce, and seafood, has become a dominant segment of African air cargo. Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Africa are among the leading exporters of perishable goods to Europe and the Middle East, prompting investment in cold chain logistics.
Pharmaceutical transportation is also growing, particularly for vaccines, driving further investment in temperature-controlled storage and transport facilities.
High-value goods such as electronics and precious metals contribute significantly to air freight demand. Countries like South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania continue to export substantial quantities of gold and diamonds.
Additionally, air cargo is used for transporting election materials, including ballots and voter registration documents, as well as newly printed banknotes and coins for financial institutions.
Challenges Facing the Air Cargo Industry in Africa
Despite its growth, the African air cargo industry faces several challenges. High operational costs, including fuel expenses, freight taxes, and cargo handling fees, impact profitability. Additionally, infrastructure deficits affect over half of the continent’s airports, leading to delays and inefficiencies in cargo movement.
Geopolitical instability also presents operational difficulties.
“Political instability and regional conflicts, such as those in Sudan, can lead to airspace closures and longer travel times. Additionally, security risks like smuggling and threats to crew safety pose significant challenges to cargo operations,” Mr Kerins said.
The Future of African Air Cargo
Industry stakeholders are investing in modernisation efforts to improve operational efficiency. Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has undergone upgrades to enhance cargo handling capabilities, while digital platforms and automation are being introduced to improve tracking and cargo management.
Airport expansion projects, including new cargo terminals and warehousing facilities, are ongoing across the continent. Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, for example, has invested in specialized cold storage for perishable exports.
However, competition from sea freight poses a challenge.
“With better infrastructure and logistics solutions in place at African ports, sea freight could take a larger share of the cargo market, potentially reducing demand for air freight services,” Mr Kerins said.
To remain competitive, the air cargo sector is expected to focus on innovation, infrastructure development, and intermodal transport solutions that integrate road and rail networks for seamless goods movement.
