10 Best Performing Airlines in Africa 2023

Africa has become an increasingly attractive destination for travellers worldwide for different reasons. With Africa’s tourism and business booming, the aviation scene has become a real game-changer, linking Africa with the world.

However, the African aviation story is full of twists and turns. It is a story that has unfolded against a backdrop of challenges, from economic uncertainties and political instabilities to infrastructure deficits and global health crises. Yet, African airlines have risen to the occasion, reinventing themselves and winning the loyalty of passengers.

Skytrax, an internationally recognized organization that assesses airlines worldwide, recently unveiled its report of the World’s Top 100 Airlines. Notably, African airlines demonstrated a commendable performance.

Branded as the passenger’s choice award, the 2022-2023 survey included assessments of more than 325 airlines and involved participation from over 100 nationalities of customers from September 2022 to May 2023.

For the survey, participants nominate their favoured airline or the one they consider the best, offering ratings that reflect their satisfaction with numerous facets of the travel experience both at the airport and onboard.

Below are 10 of the best performing airlines in Africa according to Skytrax;

Air-Seychelles-plane

Air Seychelles, the flag carrier of Seychelles, was established in 1978. Presently, the airline is 40% owned by Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates. Notably, it became the inaugural airline to secure overflight rights from Saudi Arabia’s government for its flights to and from Tel Aviv, Israel.

Fastjet

Fastjet, an African budget airline, commenced operations in 2012. Presently, it provides flights from Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls to Johannesburg in South Africa, as well as from Victoria Falls to Kruger Nelspruit Mpumalanga in South Africa. Since its inception, Fastjet has transported more than 3.5 million passengers, solidifying its reputation as a dependable African airline.

FlySafair

FlySafair took flight in October 2014, yet its parent company, Safair, boasts a remarkable 50-year legacy. This low-cost South African airline is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. The company boasts a fleet of 22 aircraft, comprising five B734 classics and the remaining as B738 NGs.

Egyptair

EGYPTAIR is among the world’s aviation trailblazers. Founded in May 1932, it was the seventh airline globally. It serves over 80 destinations worldwide, encompassing Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

RwandaAir wants to become the first carrier in Africa to launch IATA’s Travel Pass

As Rwanda’s official airline, RwandAir has solidified its reputation as a dependable and passenger-focused carrier. Boasting a fleet of more than 12 aircraft and an extensive route network spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, RwandAir ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel journey for its customers.

Air Mauritius

Established in 1967, Air Mauritius is the national airline of Mauritius. Air Mauritius operates flights to over 20 destinations worldwide, including major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Indian Ocean region.

Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways, also known by its IATA code KQ, has been proudly representing Kenya since its establishment in 1977. The airline boasts a fleet of more than 40 aircraft, including Boeing and Embraer jets, ensuring safe and comfortable journeys for its passengers.

South African Airways