The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) has announced the launch of the first phase of a major research initiative designed to improve understanding of business aviation across the continent and provide industry stakeholders with a comprehensive, data-driven view of the sector.

The project, announced in Kigali, Rwanda, marks the beginning of a multi-phase study that will examine business aviation activity, fleet composition, economic impact and operational trends throughout Africa. Initial findings are expected to be presented during Aviation Africa 2026, scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, on 9–10 September.

Comprehensive industry study underway

The research is being conducted by independent behavioural economics and strategic marketing consultancy Seefeld Group and aims to create what AfBAA describes as the most comprehensive dataset on African business aviation assembled to date.

According to the association, the study will provide insights to support industry decision-making, strengthen advocacy efforts and improve understanding of the sector among policymakers, operators and investors.

AfBAA Chairperson Dawit Lemma said the initiative is intended to address longstanding gaps in reliable industry data and provide members with information that can support future operational and investment decisions.

Focus on operational and economic insights

The first phase of the research will adopt a data-first approach and include analysis of fleet composition, economic activity, maintenance trends and media perceptions of business aviation.

The study will cover a broad range of non-scheduled aviation activity, including business jets, turboprops, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), reflecting the diversity of AfBAA’s membership base.

The association believes the findings will help create a clearer picture of how business aviation supports economic activity and connectivity across the continent.

Supporting industry growth and advocacy

Charles Porteous, President of Seefeld Group, said the project is intended to provide credible, objective information that can support stronger industry advocacy and informed decision-making.

He noted that while Africa represents one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets, business aviation activity across the continent remains relatively under-researched compared with other regions.

The research will examine operational activity, fleet deployment and aircraft utilisation patterns to provide a more detailed understanding of the sector.

Building a stronger future for African business aviation

AfBAA said the initiative forms part of its broader strategy to increase the visibility of business aviation in Africa, deliver greater value to members and strengthen engagement with industry stakeholders globally.

The association expects the research findings to contribute to future discussions around investment, safety, operational resilience and long-term sector development across the continent.