For 2026, Africa promises more reasons than ever to explore its diversity—from new luxury lodges in safari havens to urban neighborhoods reinventing themselves as creative hubs.
Africa
Based on outbound seat capacity for June 2026, these airports handled the largest number of scheduled departing airline seats.
Etihad Airways (EY) has announced a major expansion of its African network with six new destinations across Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Algeria’s move to end its air services agreement with the UAE threatens Emirates’ Dubai–Algiers flights, highlighting how diplomatic tensions can quickly affect international aviation routes.
Skytrax’s 2025 list of the best low-cost airlines in Africa showcases the carriers leading this transformation, combining efficiency with competitive pricing.
Algeria has lost a potential new long-haul link after Etihad Airways (EY) quietly abandoned its plans to launch scheduled passenger flights to the country.
Aviation-content creator Josh Cahill recently accused national carrier Air Côte d’Ivoire (HF) of “downgrade, scam, and censorship” after what he described as a chaotic experience aboard the airline’s inaugural long-haul flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Félix‑Houphouët‑Boigny International Airport (ABJ).
The ten most connected airports in the Middle East and Africa for 2025 reveal a dynamic mix of mega-hubs and regional players.
Etihad Airways (EY) has confirmed its return to Zanzibar (ZNZ) for the 2026 summer season, expanding leisure travel options from Abu Dhabi (AUH).
Air Côte d’Ivoire (HF), the national carrier of Côte d’Ivoire, has received its first Airbus A330-900 aircraft.