Africa’s diverse geography and expanding economies have fostered an extensive network of airports and airfields across the continent.
From major international hubs handling millions of passengers each year to small airstrips connecting remote communities, these facilities play a vital role in transport, tourism, and economic activity.
Airports are defined as facilities with paved runways and regular commercial services, primarily handling passenger flights, cargo transport, and connecting cities or countries.
Airfields, on the other hand, include smaller or unpaved strips used for private, regional, or specialized operations, often accommodating helicopters, charter flights, and logistical or emergency services.
The data for this ranking is sourced from the World Factbook by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), specifically the Country Comparisons section on Airports. Totals include all locations recognizable from the air, whether paved or unpaved, and may cover closed or abandoned installations.
Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria, ranks 18th on the continent with approximately 50 airports and airfields. Of these, 23 are operational and managed by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), handling over 18 million passengers annually, according to the ICAO State Profile: FAAN 2024. Despite a population of more than 200 million, most Nigerians rely on road transport, and limited income and demand restrict air travel.
The list below presents the ten African countries with the largest number of airports and airfields in 2025, highlighting major international gateways, regional connectivity, and the role of smaller airstrips in linking communities, supporting tourism, and facilitating economic and logistical activity.
Zimbabwe ranks sixth in Africa with 144 airports and airfields, a network shaped by its historical infrastructure and diverse geography. Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare serves as the main international gateway, while Victoria Falls Airport and Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo handle regional and domestic traffic.
Beyond these major hubs, a mix of smaller airstrips and private fields connects rural communities and supports tourism. Many airstrips provide access to national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools, as well as lodges near Victoria Falls, reducing travel times across the country’s road network.
These facilities also support private aviation and charter services, ensuring that both business and leisure travellers can reach remote destinations efficiently.
