Airshows are more than just a flashy spectacle – they’re a real catalyst for aviation growth across Africa and this is very important for the aviation sector in the continent.
Airshows in Africa can serve as powerful catalysts for aviation growth by attracting investment, showcasing innovation, fostering partnerships, boosting tourism, and strengthening regulatory and safety standards. They provide a platform for African nations to position themselves as competitive players in the global aviation industry.
Aviation in Africa is at a pivotal stage. With rapid urbanisation, growing middle-class populations, and increasing demand for connectivity, the continent’s aviation sector is poised for expansion. Yet, challenges such as infrastructure gaps, limited financing, and regulatory hurdles persist. Now, Airshows — once seen as mere spectacles of aerial acrobatics — are now emerging as strategic platforms for transformation.
Indeed, airshows turn heads, open wallets, and lay the groundwork for a more robust, skilled, and connected aviation ecosystem across the continent.
Africa’s passenger air traffic is projected to grow at an average rate of six percent (6%) annually through 2044, fuelled by a youthful population, an expanding middle class, rapid urbanisation, and significant investments in airports and connectivity, according to Boeing. To meet this rising demand, the region’s commercial fleet is expected to more than double, reaching 1,680 aircraft over the next 20 years, as outlined in Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) for Africa.
Of the more than 1,200 new aircraft deliveries anticipated, single-aisle jets will make up about 70 percent, supporting the expansion of domestic and short-haul international networks. Low-cost carriers across Africa are well positioned to seize this opportunity, adding new routes within the continent and to destinations in Europe and the Middle East. By offering affordable travel options, these airlines will enhance connectivity and help drive economic growth.
Africa’s aviation sector is indeed growing rapidly and defying the “stagnation myth”, and the projection for 2025 is closer to 273 million passengers. The broader trend — double-digit growth rates in some markets and long-term 6% annual expansion — confirms strong momentum and a sector on the rise. Africa’s strategic location positions it as a natural crossroads linking Europe, Asia, and the Americas. By hosting international airshows, the continent showcases its ambition to rival established aviation hubs such as Dubai and Singapore. These events also provide a platform for African nations to define their aviation strategies, aligning with global priorities in sustainability and digital transformation.
Airshows attract international investors, aircraft manufacturers, and service providers. This creates opportunities for African airports and airlines to secure financing for new fleets, terminals, and maintenance facilities. By showcasing Africa’s aviation potential, airshows encourage investment in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) centres, cargo hubs, and training academies.
Airshows bring together airlines, regulators, manufacturers, and investors. This fosters partnerships that can lead to joint ventures, code-sharing agreements, and technology transfers. This gives leverage to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by promoting intra-African connectivity and trade. And there is the visibility that comes from hosting airshows that positions African nations alongside established aviation hubs like Paris, Dubai, and Farnborough.
They provide a platform for African engineers, startups, and universities to showcase innovations in avionics, drones, and sustainable aviation fuels. Airshows motivate young Africans to explore careers in aviation, engineering, and aerospace. By presenting cutting-edge aviation technology, these events ignite students’ curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
It attracts demonstrations of smart airport technologies, AI-driven traffic management, and green aviation solutions that highlight Africa’s readiness for the future. Where there is exposure to cutting-edge technologies it increases the skillset of Africa’s aviation workforce.
Airshows attract thousands of visitors, including international tourists, boosting local hospitality, transport, and retail sectors. Beyond ticket sales, airshows stimulate spending in hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. Indeed, states hosting airshows enhance their global image as aviation-friendly destinations, encouraging further tourism and investment.
Airshows frequently feature conferences where aviation regulators collaborate on harmonizing policies across Africa. Workshops and demonstrations highlight adherence to ICAO and IATA standards, reinforcing safety measures throughout the region. In addition, training programmes during these events equip regulators and operators with best practices in aviation safety and security.
Staging major airshows demands substantial investment and meticulous logistical coordination. These events must strike a balance between spectacle and environmental responsibility by advancing green aviation initiatives. Ultimately, their success hinges on transforming the opportunities presented into tangible projects and lasting partnerships.
Airshows in Africa are more than entertainment — they are strategic platforms for aviation growth, investment, and innovation. By leveraging these events, African nations can attract global attention, foster partnerships, inspire future generations, and position themselves as competitive players in the global aviation industry. The Nigeria International Airshow and similar initiatives demonstrate that Africa is ready to take its place on the world aviation stage.
Ekelem Airhihen, an accredited mediator, has an MBA from the Lagos Business School. He is a member, ACI Airport Non-aeronautical Revenue Activities Committee; his interests are in market research, customer experience and performance measurement, negotiation, strategy and data and business analytics. He can be reached on ekyair@yahoo.com and +2348023125396 (WhatsApp only).
