African airlines recorded strong growth in both demand and capacity in 2025, but the region continues to post the lowest passenger load factor PLF globally, according to IATAs Air Passenger Market Analysis for 2025.
Globally, full-year passenger demand , measured in revenue passenger kilometres RPK, rose 5,3 compared with 2024, while capacity, measured in available seat kilometres ASK, increased by 5,2. The global PLF reached a record 83,6, up 0,1 percentage point ppt year-on-year.
In comparison, African airlines saw combined international and domestic demand grow by 9,4 in 2025. Total passenger capacity increased by 8,3, but despite 0,7ppt growth, PLF was the lowest of all regions at 75,3.
