The roadshow begins in Nairobi, East Africa’s bustling hub for technology and business, before heading to South Africa’s major economic centres, Johannesburg and Cape Town. This initiative highlights VistaJet’s strategic focus on key African markets, leveraging these cities’ prominent roles in the continent’s aviation sector and aligning with Africa’s economic transformation goals outlined by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.

A Thriving Market for Business Aviation

Africa’s private aviation market is on a sharp upward trajectory. According to the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), the continent’s business jet fleet is expected to grow by 8% annually over the next five years. Currently, Africa boasts 418 business jets, with South Africa leading the market, followed by Kenya and Nigeria. This sector also significantly contributes to economic development, supporting 7.7 million jobs and contributing $63 billion to Africa’s GDP.

VistaJet’s East and South Africa Roadshow comes on the heels of its successful West African edition earlier this year, reflecting the rising demand for luxury and business aviation services across the continent. In the first half of 2024 alone, VistaJet reported a staggering 33% growth in Global 7500 flight hours across Africa, with South Africa and East Africa experiencing 79% and 46% increases, respectively.

Africa’s Growing Wealth Landscape

Africa’s economic growth is further bolstered by its expanding high-net-worth individual (HNWI) population. The 2024 Africa Wealth Report estimates that the number of millionaires in Africa will increase by 65% over the next decade, fuelled by advancements in fintech, green technology, and rare metals mining. This wealth concentration is predominantly in South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco, which collectively account for 56% of the continent’s HNWIs.

The Bombardier Global 7500: A Game-Changer for Business Aviation

VistaJet’s showcase aircraft, the Bombardier Global 7500, exemplifies luxury and efficiency. With the capacity to fly 17 hours non-stop, this jet connects major African cities, such as Johannesburg to Cairo, and even intercontinental routes, such as Africa to Asia. Its state-of-the-art design includes four distinct living spaces and precision-engineered wings, ensuring a smooth and luxurious travel experience for business and leisure travellers alike.

With 18 Global 7500 jets, VistaJet operates the world’s largest fleet of these aircraft. The company’s global reach—spanning 96% of the globe and access to over 2,700 airports—offers African clients unmatched reliability and flexibility, including guaranteed availability within 24 hours.

A Vision for the Future

Over the past 14 years, VistaJet has transformed business aviation in Africa, becoming the leading provider of on-demand flights. Despite a global contraction in the private aviation market, VistaJet has defied industry trends, achieving a 14% growth in total flight hours in the first half of 2024. The company’s VistaJet Program Membership, which recorded 19% growth, has been instrumental in this success.

“Building on the momentum of the West Africa Roadshow, we are proud to announce the East and South Africa Roadshow,” said a VistaJet spokesperson. “Our commitment to supporting Africa’s economic growth through regional investments and expanding our footprint remains steadfast. By deploying dedicated aircraft, we aim to meet the increasing demand for top-tier aviation services in these critical regions.”

As Africa’s private aviation sector continues to soar, VistaJet remains at the forefront, facilitating global investments, connecting decision-makers, and driving regional economic transformation.