Africa has made plans to improve air travel across the continent. However, travellers still face high ticket prices, few direct flights and strict visa rules.
A recent discussion on open skies and economic integration looked at these challenges. The meeting took place ahead of the Africa Mindset Reset Forum in Kigali on August 25 and 26. Government officials, regulators, investors and airline leaders discussed ways to make air travel easier and more affordable.
One major problem is the lack of direct flights. Only 19% of air routes within Africa have a direct connection. As a result, many travellers have to take longer routes or connect through cities outside Africa.
Air travel is also expensive because of high taxes and fees. Aviation charges in Africa are about 15% above the global average. Airlines also spend more on fuel, maintenance and overflight charges.
These high costs affect both airlines and passengers. By March 2026, almost $774 million in airline revenue was reportedly blocked in African markets. The money could not be moved out of those markets. This made it harder for airlines to plan new routes and invest in their fleets.
There has been progress, however. Thirty-eight African countries have signed the Single African Air Transport Market. The initiative aims to make air travel across Africa more open and competitive. More than 100 new routes within Africa have also been opened in recent years.
Still, agreements alone cannot solve the problem. African countries need to put these plans into action. Airlines also need to work together by sharing routes and creating stronger partnerships.
Visa rules are another major barrier. Only four of the African Union’s 54 member states have ratified the Free Movement Protocol. This means a passenger may have a direct flight to another African country but still need a visa to enter.
Better air connections could bring major benefits. Cheaper flights could help businesses reach new markets. They could also support tourism, trade and investment. Young entrepreneurs could find it easier to build businesses across African borders.
Africa already has plans for open skies. The next step is to turn those plans into action.
African travellers need cheaper flights, more direct routes and easier movement across borders. If countries work together, better air travel could help connect Africa and unlock new opportunities.
The message is clear: Africa does not need more promises. It needs action.
