Discover Africa's Top 10 Biggest Airports in 2024—You Won’t Believe #1!

Lagos, Nigeria- Africa is known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty, but did you know it’s also home to some of the most impressive airports? Beyond stunning architecture, these airports are key gateways, connecting Africa directly to Europe and America as air traffic surges.

Forget what you’ve read about beautiful terminals—here, in our latest ranking, we explore the top 10 biggest airports in Africa 2024, from rising hubs like Dakar’s Blaise Diagne to the giant O. R. Tambo International in Johannesburg.

Ready to be surprised? Dive into our latest ranking and find out why #1 will blow your mind!

10.  Blaise Diagne International Airport (Senegal) 

Situated in Dakar, Blaise Diagne International Airport is one of West Africa’s rising aviation hubs. Opened in 2017, the airport covers over 2,300 acres and handles more than 4 million passengers annually. Its modern facilities and strategic location make it an important gateway for travelers across West Africa. The airport’s growth reflects Senegal’s increasing importance in regional air traffic.

9.  King Shaka International Airport (South Africa) 

King Shaka International Airport, located in Durban, South Africa, spans approximately 2,500 acres and manages over 5 million passengers each year. Despite being relatively new (opened in 2010), it has quickly gained a reputation for its modern infrastructure and excellent services. The airport connects Durban with major international destinations and serves as a vital hub for domestic flights within South Africa.

8.  Houari Boumediene Airport (Algeria) 

Also known as Algeria’s International Airport, Houari Boumediene Airport is Algeria’s largest and busiest airport. Spanning 2,700 acres, it serves over 6 million passengers annually. The airport plays a significant role in connecting North Africa with Europe and the Middle East, offering vital links for both business and tourism. Its recent expansions reflect Algeria’s growing prominence in the region.

7.  Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Kenya) 

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi is Kenya’s largest airport and a critical hub for East African air travel. Covering more than 3,000 acres, the airport handles over 6.5 million passengers yearly. As one of the busiest airports in Africa, it provides key connections between Africa, Europe, and Asia, facilitating tourism and business across the continent.

6.  Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Ethiopia)

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is Ethiopia’s largest and most important airport, spanning 3,500 acres and serving over 7 million passengers annually. It acts as the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline, making it a key player in connecting Africa with Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. With its ongoing expansions, the airport is set to further increase its capacity and global influence.

5.  Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Nigeria) 

Located in Lagos, Nigeria, Murtala Muhammed International Airport is Nigeria’s busiest and most important airport, covering approximately 6,000 acres. It handles over 8 million passengers annually, making it a major hub for both international business and tourism. The airport’s central role in connecting Nigeria to the rest of the world highlights its significance in Africa’s aviation landscape.

4.  Mohammed V International Airport (Morocco) 

Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport is one of the busiest airports in North Africa, spanning over 6,500 acres and serving more than 9 million passengers annually. The airport is a key gateway for travelers between Africa, Europe, and the Americas, with its strategic location making it a vital hub for both business and tourism. Recent upgrades have enhanced its capacity and services, solidifying its place among Africa’s top airports.

3.  Cape Town International Airport (South Africa) 

Cape Town International Airport is renowned not only for its size but also for its exceptional customer service. Covering 7,200 acres, it manages over 10 million passengers each year, making it one of the busiest airports in Africa. The airport connects South Africa’s second-largest city with major global destinations and is known for its world-class facilities, contributing to its reputation as one of Africa’s biggest airports.

2.  Cairo International Airport (Egypt)

 Cairo International Airport is Egypt’s largest airport and a major hub for both African and international travel. Spanning 9,500 acres, it serves over 15 million passengers annually. Its strategic location makes it a vital link between Africa, Europe, and Asia, playing a crucial role in tourism and business travel. With continuous upgrades, Cairo International Airport remains a key player in the global aviation industry.

1. O. R. Tambo International Airport (South Africa) 

Topping the list of Africa’s biggest and busiest airports is O. R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Spanning a massive 13,500 acres, it handles more than 21 million passengers annually, making it the largest airport on the continent. Serving as the main gateway for Southern Africa, O. R. Tambo connects travelers from all over the world with Africa’s most dynamic economies. Its size, passenger volume, and importance in global air travel cement its position as Africa’s leading airport in 2024.