4 stars
- South African Airways
3 stars
- EgyptAir
- Kenya Airways
The continent of Africa is home to a little over 50 countries, and extends for vast distances on both sides of the equator. Road and rail networks are not pervasive throughout the continent, and this is not due only to the lack of infrastructural development. The Sahara desert, which occupies a sizeable area to the north, makes land travel difficult, and the long distances between urban centres also make cars and trains an unattractive option. Flying is therefore the obvious choice for long-distance travellers in Africa. Whether they are moving within Africa, or on or off the continent, the political conflict and geographical obstacles on the ground are negated.
Situated at the southern end of Africa, South Africa serves as a transit destination for some long-haul flights. This is in keeping with the historical role of the early South African colony as a refreshment station for passing ships.
Airlines in Africa are regulated by AFRAA (African Airlines Association). There are roughly 60 airlines in Africa, some of them domestic and others international. Sometimes airlines in Africa are not reliable in that they may shut down suddenly. If you are going to use a lesser-known airline in Africa, always do proper research on them. However, the bigger international carriers are reliable and have very good safety records.
African Hawk-Eagle
Speaking of safety, there is the reputation of African airlines that they are less safe than carriers in other parts of the world. Africa accounts for less than 10% of world air traffic but around 25% of air disasters. Planes of Russian manufacture have also been cited as a possible cause of that statistic. But the fact that there are so few air accidents every year makes it harder to tell if there are other factors that may be contributing to the situation in Africa, such as inexperienced, lower-paid pilots or unsupervised maintenance of the planes. And statistically you are still more likely to die in a car crash than in a plane, even if it’s a plane in Africa. If you feel concerned about air safety, feel free to contact us so that we can advise you on the best course of action or make enquiries with the airline(s) that you are considering booking your flight with. A recent accident or maintenance-related issue is a warning sign, but do not try to look for an airline that has never had a safety incident because you probably won’t find many of them anywhere in the world.
Although public transport infrastructure in Africa may not be what you are used to, there is usually some form of taxi service from the airport to your hotel or accommodation. In dealing with an African airline, the colonial history may also affect the language that you have to use to book your ticket or make enquiries. Then there are also many domestic carriers. If you want to make an internal flight in an African country, it is a good idea to contact us so that we can assist you with the booking.
