The African Union (AU) has launched a $30 billion plan to modernize airports and airspace systems across Africa over the next decade, aiming to strengthen connectivity and advance the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Announced at the 3rd Financing Summit for Africa’s Infrastructure Development in Luanda, the initiative allocates $10 billion for airport upgrades, $8 billion for communication, navigation, and meteorological systems, and $12 billion for institutional reforms and private investment incentives.
A joint AU study with the AFCAC, ICAO, and the World Bank estimates Africa will need $25–30 billion to meet growing aviation demands, as passenger traffic is expected to soar from 160 million in 2024 to nearly 500 million by 2050.
The AU plans to mobilize $10 billion in public funding and attract $20 billion from private and institutional investors, working with development finance institutions and AUDA-NEPAD. The modernization effort emphasizes digitalization, green technologies, and renewable energy to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
According to AU officials, aviation is a vital driver of continental integration and economic transformation, supporting both Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The plan aims to build a modern, safe, and sustainable aviation network, boosting Africa’s connectivity, trade, and global competitiveness.
