African air cargo volumes reached approximately 1.4 million tonnes in 2023, growing 12 percent year-on-year against a flat global market. Ethiopian Airlines, which operates the largest dedicated freighter fleet in Africa with 18 cargo aircraft, is the continent's dominant air cargo carrier, using Addis Ababa Bole as a hub for perishable and pharmaceutical cargo transiting between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Kenya Airways Cargo operates the Northern Corridor's most important air freight link, carrying flowers, vegetables, and fresh fish from Nairobi to European supermarkets. Together, these two carriers account for over 60 percent of sub-Saharan African air cargo capacity.
High-Value Commodities Driving Growth
Fresh cut flowers from Ethiopia and Kenya, fresh vegetables from Rwanda and Zimbabwe, pharmaceutical exports from South Africa, and live seafood from West Africa all depend on reliable air freight infrastructure. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport's expanded perishable handling centre, operational since 2022, increased cold-chain cargo throughput by 40 percent. Air cargo rates and carrier contacts for African perishable and pharmaceutical exports are accessible on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.