IN March 2024, the airways between the United States and Africa are buzzing with activity, as revealed by data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company. A total of 488 flights are scheduled, offering a staggering 130,606 seats for travellers between these two regions. With eight airlines plying the routes, passengers have a choice of 23 non-stop and four one-stop connections, opening up a plethora of travel opportunities.
Among the key insights provided by Cirium, 12 African airports have flights from the United States this month. These include prominent hubs such as Abidjan, Accra, Addis Ababa, Cairo, Casablanca, Cape Town, Dakar, Johannesburg, Lomé, Lagos, Nairobi, and Praia. These airports are linked to major US cities like Atlanta and New York, facilitating seamless travel for passengers.
Top US-Africa routes in March 2024
- New York JFK to Cairo International Airport: Leading the charts this month is the route from New York JFK to Cairo, with a whopping 30 scheduled flights and 9,640 seats on offer. Operated by Egyptair, this route covers a distance of 4,878 nautical miles (9,034 kilometres) and boasts the distinction of being the only carrier with non-stop flights between the two airports. Cairo’s status as a bustling gateway to northern Africa is underscored by its significant passenger traffic, which witnessed a 30 percent increase last year.
- Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson to Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport: Following closely is the route from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson to Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport, with 31 flights and 9,486 seats available. Delta Air Lines operates this route, connecting the world’s busiest airport with Africa’s second busiest. Spanning a distance of 7,333 nautical miles (13,581 kilometres), this route stands as Africa’s longest non-stop intercontinental route.
- Washington Dulles to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport: Rounding up the top three is the route from Washington Dulles to Addis Ababa, with 31 non-stop flights and 9,486 seats scheduled. Ethiopian Airlines operates this route, offering daily flights and maintaining a robust international network. With its strategic location and extensive connectivity, Addis Ababa serves as a key hub for travellers heading to various destinations across Africa.
- New York JFK to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport: Noteworthy is the route from New York JFK to Casablanca, with 26 scheduled flights and 7,684 seats available. Royal Air Maroc operates this route, connecting the bustling metropolis of New York with the vibrant city of Casablanca.
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Addis Ababa: Lastly, the route from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Addis Ababa sees 26 flights and 7,020 seats offered in March 2024. Ethiopian Airlines operates this route, providing six weekly flights and strengthening its presence in the North American market.
In summary, March 2024 witnesses a significant uptick in US-Africa flight routes, reflecting the growing demand for travel between these regions. With airlines offering an array of options, travellers can easily explore the diverse landscapes and cultures that Africa has to offer.