New figures from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) show that African airlines experienceda 17.9 percent year on year increase in passenger demand in January. Airline capacity across the continent rose by 16.3 percent, while load factors reached 77 percent, signaling improved aircraft utilization as travel demand rebounds.
The rise in passenger traffic is also boosting air cargo capacity across the continent. Passenger aircraft carry freight in their belly holds, providing exporters with additional cargo space without the need for dedicated freighter planes.
This channel has become increasingly important for high-value exports, including flowers, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and fast-growing e-commerce shipments, moving between Africa and global markets.
Globally, aviation demand also strengthened. Airlines recorded an average load factor of 82 percent in January, the highest level ever reported for that month. International travel was the main driver of growth, with passenger demand increasing by 5.9 percent compared with the same period last year, closely matched by a 5.8 percent rise in available seat capacity. (BIA)
