Top 10 Busiest Airports in Africa as of July 2025: A Surge in Air Travel
Africa’s aviation sector is soaring in 2025, with passenger traffic projected to hit 113 million, a 15.3% increase from 2024, according to the African Airlines Association (AFRAA). Fueled by booming tourism, expanding airline networks, and infrastructure upgrades, the continent’s busiest airports are handling unprecedented passenger volumes and flight frequencies. For U.S. travelers, business professionals, and aviation enthusiasts, understanding Africa’s key aviation hubs is essential for planning seamless travel. Below, we rank the top 10 busiest airports in Africa as of July 2025, based on passenger traffic and flight data, highlighting their significance and connectivity.
1. Cairo International Airport (CAI), Egypt
Passenger Traffic: ~28.97 million (2025)
Cairo International Airport reigns as Africa’s busiest, handling nearly 29 million passengers annually. Its strategic location bridging Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, combined with Egypt’s tourism resurgence and EgyptAir’s robust network, drives its dominance. On April 5, 2025, CAI set a record with 102,108 passengers in a single day. With plans for a new Terminal 4 to boost capacity to 40 million, Cairo remains a critical hub for U.S. travelers visiting Egypt’s pyramids or connecting to other African destinations.
2. OR Tambo International Airport (JNB), South Africa
Passenger Traffic: ~18.37 million (2025)
Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport is Southern Africa’s economic powerhouse, serving 18.37 million passengers. As a hub for South African Airways, it offers direct flights to the U.S., including New York and Washington, D.C. Its extensive connectivity to every inhabited continent makes it a top choice for American business travelers and tourists exploring South Africa’s vibrant cities and safari destinations.
3. Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), Ethiopia
Passenger Traffic: ~11.80 million (2025)
Home to Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, Bole International Airport ranks third with 11.8 million passengers. Its role as a transit hub connecting Africa to Asia, Europe, and the Americas makes it vital for U.S. travelers. Ethiopian Airlines’ expansion, with 165 aircraft generating $7 billion in revenue, underscores Addis Ababa’s growing global reach. A new mega-airport near Bishoftu, set to open by 2029, will further elevate its status.
4. Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), Morocco
Passenger Traffic: ~10.45 million (2025)
Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, a hub for Royal Air Maroc, serves 10.45 million passengers. Its direct flights to New York and Miami make it a key gateway for Americans visiting North Africa. With a planned £1.1 billion terminal expansion by 2029, CMN is gearing up for the 2030 World Cup, enhancing its appeal for U.S. tourists drawn to Morocco’s cultural allure.
5. Cape Town International Airport (CPT), South Africa
Passenger Traffic: ~10.37 million (2025)
Cape Town International Airport, handling 10.37 million passengers, is a tourism magnet, driven by the city’s scenic beauty and vibrant culture. Recognized by Skytrax for its efficiency and friendly staff, it’s a favorite for U.S. travelers. Low-cost carrier FlySafair’s new routes, like Hoedspruit to Cape Town, enhance accessibility for Americans exploring South Africa’s diverse landscapes.
6. Hurghada International Airport (HRG), Egypt
Passenger Traffic: ~9.64 million (2025)
Hurghada, serving 9.64 million passengers, thrives on European and international tourism to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts. While primarily a leisure hub, its growth reflects Egypt’s tourism rebound, appealing to U.S. travelers seeking beach getaways. Infrastructure upgrades ensure smooth operations for seasonal traffic spikes.
7. Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK), Morocco
Passenger Traffic: ~9.25 million (2025)
Marrakech-Menara Airport, with 9.25 million passengers, blends modern design with Moroccan charm. Its 34% year-on-year growth highlights Morocco’s appeal as a cultural destination for U.S. tourists. The airport’s connectivity to Europe also makes it a convenient stopover for Americans traveling onward.
8. Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG), Algeria
Passenger Traffic: ~9.15 million (2025)
Algiers’ Houari Boumediene Airport, handling 9.15 million passengers, is a key North African hub for Air Algérie. Its links to Europe and the Middle East make it relevant for U.S. business travelers engaging with Algeria’s growing economy. Recent terminal upgrades boost its capacity to 10 million annually.
9. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Kenya
Passenger Traffic: ~8.75 million (2025)
Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with 8.75 million passengers, is East Africa’s primary gateway. As a hub for Kenya Airways, it connects U.S. travelers to safari destinations and regional business hubs. Its 25.2% growth from 2022 to 2023 underscores Kenya’s rising tourism and trade appeal.
10. Carthage Airport (TUN), Tunisia
Passenger Traffic: ~7.28 million (2025)
Tunis’ Carthage Airport rounds out the list with 7.28 million passengers. Benefiting from Tunisia’s renewed tourism push, it serves as a gateway for Americans exploring North Africa’s historical sites. Its steady growth reflects improved infrastructure and regional connectivity.
Why It Matters for U.S. Travelers
Africa’s busiest airports are more than just transit points; they’re gateways to the continent’s rich cultural, economic, and natural offerings. For Americans, these hubs offer direct or convenient connections to explore iconic destinations like Egypt’s pyramids, South Africa’s safaris, or Morocco’s medinas. With African airlines like Ethiopian Airlines and Royal Air Maroc expanding routes to the U.S., travel is more accessible than ever. Infrastructure investments and efficient operations ensure a smoother experience, whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or expatriate.
Future Trends
Africa’s aviation sector is set for continued growth, with airports like Cairo and Addis Ababa planning massive expansions. The rise in tourism, business travel, and airline partnerships will likely reshape these rankings in the coming years. For U.S. travelers, staying informed about these hubs ensures better trip planning and access to Africa’s dynamic markets and attractions.
Sources: Business Insider Africa, Nairametrics, FlightsFrom.com, African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Skytrax