Nigeria hits 18.8 million flights, ranks Africa’s fourth-largest market
FAAN said passenger traffic and airline capacity are expanding, but infrastructure and operating costs continue to constrain Nigeria’s aviation potential. The post Nigeria hits 18.8 million flights, ranks Africa’s…
Nigeria’s aviation sector recorded more than 18.8 million domestic and international passenger movements in 2025, making it Africa’s fourth-largest aviation market, according to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The agency says passenger demand and airline capacity are continuing to grow, with scheduled departing seats in September 2026 rising 37.4% year-on-year to about 1.19 million.
Lagos has also recorded strong growth, with scheduled capacity at its airport increasing by 24.1% year-on-year in September. Nigeria’s domestic scheduled capacity rose by 44.8%, which FAAN attributes partly to currency reforms, new aircraft leasing arrangements and greater confidence among airlines. The wider African market is also recovering, with international passenger demand for African airlines increasing 6.4% year-on-year in July.
Despite the growth, FAAN says high operating costs, infrastructure gaps and limited access to capital remain major constraints. The agency is calling for greater investment in airport infrastructure, technology and human capital, as well as more commercially sustainable frameworks that would allow airports to expand capacity and improve services as passenger demand increases.