East Africa’s regional air travel had rebounded significantly from COVID-19 disruptions. Airlines across the region—led by Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, and Air Tanzania—restored and expanded short-haul routes, boosted by increased domestic tourism, intra-African business travel, and the easing of cross-border restrictions. Passenger volumes steadily rose, with intra-regional traffic reaching nearly 85% of pre-pandemic levels according to AFRAA data.
Low-cost carriers (LCCs) played a growing role in recovery. Kenya’s Jambojet expanded its footprint across Kenya, Uganda, and DRC, while Precision Air reestablished its regional network from Tanzania. Though still developing, the LCC sector attracted price-sensitive travelers, especially for short routes under two hours.
Airlines adopted adaptive strategies to restore profitability. Fleets were optimized through the retirement of older aircraft and the acquisition of efficient turboprops and regional jets such as the CRJ900 and ATR 72. Carriers focused on high-demand routes (e.g., Nairobi–Zanzibar, Addis–Juba), while unprofitable or geopolitically complex routes were suspended. Strategic partnerships—such as Kenya Airways–Jambojet and RwandAir–Qatar Airways—enhanced regional and global connectivity.
Airport investments across Kisumu, Entebbe, Mwanza, and Kigali supported this recovery. Terminal upgrades, runway extensions, and improved airside facilities helped accommodate rising traffic. Governments provided support through tax incentives, route subsidies, and commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Challenges included rising operational costs, pilot shortages, and slot constraints at major hubs. However, digital innovations like mobile check-in, biometric boarding, and enhanced cabin experiences improved passenger satisfaction.
East African regional aviation had proven resilient. Strengthened by local demand, policy support, and regional integration, it remained a cornerstone of mobility, trade, and economic recovery across the region.
