The African air cargo industry is steadily advancing, driven by growing investments aimed at enhancing its efficiency and capacity. Over the past decade, the sector has undergone significant changes, particularly since Magma Aviation, a pioneer in innovative air cargo solutions, began operations on the continent. As the company approaches its 15th anniversary, its CEO, Peter Kerins, shares valuable insights into the dynamic and evolving air cargo industry in Africa.
Transforming Demand in African Air Cargo
According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global air cargo markets experienced a 3.2% increase in total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), in January 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. For 18 consecutive months, the industry has demonstrated growth, with African airlines recording an 8.5% rise in air cargo demand last year. Although projected growth this year is more moderate, it remains promising, supported by infrastructure upgrades, technological advancements, and process optimization.
Africa's unique geographic position, bridging Asia, Europe, and the Americas, continues to be a strategic advantage. Multiple airports across the continent are developing centralized networks to capitalize on this. Nairobi leads as the continent’s busiest cargo hub, followed by Cairo and Johannesburg, with Addis Ababa, Casablanca, and Lagos also emerging as vital logistics centers.
The expanding African middle class is one of the key factors driving demand for air cargo. Rising urbanization has increased the need for the transportation of international, high-value goods. Similarly, the rapid growth of e-commerce has created a demand for faster freight solutions. 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 by 2029.
“As a result, global e-commerce giants like Amazon are entering the African market, while regional platforms such as Jumia and Takealot are scaling their operations. The rise of online shopping has amplified the need for efficient logistics solutions, with air cargo increasingly preferred for high-value and time-sensitive goods,” notes Peter Kerins, CEO of Magma Aviation.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), encompassing 55 African Union member countries, is further driving demand for air cargo services by facilitating intra-African trade through the reduction of trade barriers and the harmonization of regulations.
Growth Trends in African Air Cargo Shipments
The export of perishable goods has emerged as a cornerstone of the African air cargo sector. Countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania lead the export of cut flowers, with Kenya alone supplying around 40% of all cut flowers sold in Europe. Other perishable exports include fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood, predominantly destined for Europe and the Middle East.
The transportation of pharmaceuticals, particularly vaccines, is another growing segment, necessitating improved cold chain logistics. Airports across the continent are upgrading their facilities to support temperature-controlled storage and transportation.
High-value goods, including electronics, luxury items, and precious metals, form a significant portion of Africa’s air cargo shipments. Increased demand for smartphones, laptops, and other high-tech products is bolstering air freight demand, while the export of precious metals and diamonds from countries like South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania continues to thrive.
Elections and currency shipments also contribute to the industry’s growth, as materials like voter registration documents and ballots often require timely and secure air transportation to remote areas.
Challenges Confronting African Air Cargo
Despite its growth, the African air cargo industry faces several challenges:
High Costs: Elevated cargo handling fees, fuel costs, and freight taxes reduce the value proposition of air cargo services, making profitability harder to achieve.
Infrastructure Deficiencies: More than half of Africa’s airports lack adequate cargo infrastructure, resulting in delays, longer handling times, and increased risks of damage to perishable goods.
Geopolitical Instability: Political conflicts and regional unrest, such as in Sudan, lead to airspace closures, increased travel times, and heightened security risks.
Peter Kerins emphasizes the importance of modernization: “It is vital for the industry to adopt advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency, safety, and compliance. This includes implementing digital cargo tracking systems and embracing automated handling processes.”
Expanding Infrastructure and Embracing Innovation
To accommodate the growing demand for air freight, African airports are investing heavily in infrastructure. Cairo International Airport, for example, is undergoing a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal and the enhancement of cargo facilities. Other airports, such as Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, have invested in specialized cold storage facilities to cater to perishable goods exports.
Technological advancements, such as automated sorting systems and enhanced tracking tools, are being adopted across African airports to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Intermodal transport links, including road and rail connectivity, are also being developed to facilitate seamless cargo movement.
However, competition from sea freight remains a challenge. As African ports modernize and enhance their capabilities, sea freight is becoming a more cost-effective option for bulk and non-perishable goods.
“With better infrastructure and logistics solutions at African ports, sea freight could capture a larger share of the market, particularly for sectors where speed is less critical. As a result, the air cargo industry must innovate and adapt to remain competitive in these evolving market dynamics,” Kerins concludes.
Source: https://www.ajot.com/news/new-horizons-in-african-aviation-insights-into-air-cargo-trends-challenges-and-growth
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