Top 10 Budget-Friendly Economic and Business Flights to Africa Major Cities in 2024

Summary

●      Affordable airlines are making travel to Africa more accessible in 2024, offering economy and business-class services that prioritize cost-effectiveness and quality.

●      Top contenders include Ethiopian Airlines, recognized for its extensive network, and LIFT, celebrated as the Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa. Other notable airlines like Kenya Airways and Royal Air Maroc ensure connectivity across Africa and beyond.

●      These airlines combine affordability with reliability, providing budget-conscious travelers with high-quality options for exploring Africa’s major cities.

 DEEP DIVE!

November 28, 2024—Planning your trip to Africa in 2024 just got easier with affordable airline options that deliver both quality and value. Budget-friendly airlines are transforming travel by offering economy and business class flights that fit the needs of cost-conscious travelers without compromising on service standards.

With budget-friendly airlines gaining global recognition, 2024 brings more options for cost-effective flights to major African cities. These airlines stand out for their commitment to quality, extensive networks, and customer satisfaction. These top airlines provide economy and business-class passengers with excellent value whether they are traveling for business, pleasure, or to experience Africa's rich culture.

Here are the top 10 budget-friendly airlines offering economy and business class flights to major African cities in 2024, based on the 2024 Skytrax World Airline Awards.

10. Egyptair

Egyptair, the national carrier of Egypt, operates an extensive network connecting major African cities with the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Established in 1932, it stands as one of the oldest airlines in the region. The airline offers a range of services in both economy and business classes, featuring modern amenities and in-flight entertainment systems. Egyptair is a member of the Star Alliance, enhancing its global connectivity and providing passengers with seamless travel experiences. The airline's frequent flyer program, Egyptair Plus, allows travelers to earn and redeem miles across its network.

9. Air Mauritius

Air Mauritius serves as the flag carrier of Mauritius, connecting the island nation to various African destinations, as well as Europe, Asia, and Australia. Founded in 1967, the airline has developed a reputation for its hospitality and quality service. In both economy and business classes, passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, a selection of meals, and in-flight entertainment. Air Mauritius has codeshare agreements with several international airlines, expanding its reach and offering passengers more travel options. The airline's frequent flyer program, Kestrelflyer, provides additional benefits to regular travelers.

8. RwandAir

RwandAir, the national airline of Rwanda, has rapidly expanded its network across Africa and to select international destinations, including Europe and the Middle East. Established in 2002, RwandAir is known for its punctuality and customer service. The airline operates a modern fleet, offering passengers a comfortable flying experience in both economy and business classes. RwandAir's Dream Miles frequent flyer program allows passengers to earn miles and enjoy various benefits. The airline is also recognized for its safety standards and operational efficiency.

7. Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways, known as "The Pride of Africa," operates an extensive network connecting African cities with Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Founded in 1977, the airline has become one of Africa's leading carriers. As a member of the SkyTeam alliance, Kenya Airways offers passengers access to a vast global network. The airline's economy and business class services are designed to provide comfort and convenience, with features like in-flight entertainment and gourmet meals. The Flying Blue frequent flyer program offers additional perks to loyal customers.

6. South African Airways

South African Airways (SAA) connects major African cities and select international destinations, offering services that focus on customer satisfaction. Established in 1934, SAA is one of the continent's oldest airlines. The airline provides comfortable seating and in-flightOneworld Offers a variety of meal options in both economy and business classes. SAA is a member of the Star Alliance, enhancing its global connectivity. The Voyager frequent flyer program allows passengers to earn miles and access exclusive benefits.

5. Royal Air Maroc

Royal Air Maroc, the flag carrier of Morocco, operates an extensive network connecting Africa with Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. Founded in 1957, the airline offers competitive fares in both economy and business classes. Passengers can enjoy modern in-flight entertainment systems, comfortable seating, and a selection of meals. Royal Air Maroc is a member of the Oneworld Alliance, providing passengers with access to a global network of destinations. The Safar Flyer program offers frequent travelers additional benefits and rewards.

4. Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest and fastest-growing airline, operates a vast network connecting numerous African cities and international destinations across five continents. Established in 1945, the airline has been recognized for its operational excellence and service quality. Ethiopian Airlines offers state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment, comfortable seating, and a variety of meal options in both economy and business classes. As a member of the Star Alliance, passengers have access to a global network. The ShebaMiles frequent flyer program provides additional perks to loyal customers.

3. Fastjet

Fastjet, a low-cost airline, focuses on key destinations in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique. Since its establishment in 2012, Fastjet has aimed to make air travel more accessible and affordable in the region. The airline operates a fleet of modern aircraft, offering a no-frills service that emphasizes efficiency and punctuality. Fastjet's fare structure is designed to cater to budget-conscious travelers, with options to add services like checked baggage and seat selection as needed.

2. FlySafair

FlySafair, a South African low-cost carrier, operates an extensive domestic network and has expanded to regional destinations, including Mauritius. Established in 2014, the airline is known for its punctuality and reliable service. FlySafair offers a buy-on-board program for food and drinks, allowing passengers to customize their in-flight experience. The airline's focus on on-time performance has earned it recognition as one of the world's most punctual airlines. FlySafair also offers a frequent flyer program, FlyMore, providing regular travelers with additional benefits.

1. LIFT

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LIFT, recognized as the Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa in 2024, operates primarily within South Africa, connecting major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Founded in 2020, LIFT is noted for its elevated experience and industry-leading flexibility, offering penalty-free changes and cancellations up to 24 hours before departure. The airline provides complimentary light snacks and beverages, including fresh French press coffee from Vida e caffè, sodas, premium spirits, and a selection of fine South African wines. LIFT's flexible booking options and customer-centric approach have quickly made it a popular choice among travelers.