The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) has begun a continent-wide research programme intended to deliver what it describes as the most comprehensive data-driven assessment of African business aviation to date.

The first phase of the study is already under way, with initial findings expected to be presented at the Aviation Africa event in Nairobi, Kenya, on September 9-10, 2026.

Conducted by independent consultancy Seefeld Group, the research is designed to create a unified dataset covering business aviation activity across Africa. AfBAA intends to use the information to support member decision-making, strengthen industry advocacy and provide a clearer understanding of the sector's role in the continent's economies.

“This type of research is long overdue for our members and those seeking to operate effectively in Africa. We anticipate that the data will provide foundations for smarter investment, create platforms from which to increase advocacy, enhance safety and enable more resilient operations and business longevity,” says Dawit Lemma, chairperson, AfBAA. “The holistic approach will look not just at which types of aircraft are flying which routes, but also at what they are doing and how business aviation activity affects economies. This is the type of information members can use to make informed decisions about future operational activity.”

The opening phase will focus on fleet composition, economic activity and maintenance trends, alongside an assessment of how the sector is portrayed in the media. The research will cover non-scheduled aviation activity including business jets, turboprops, helicopters and UAVs, reflecting the breadth of AfBAA's membership.

The research forms part of AfBAA's wider efforts to raise the visibility of business aviation in Africa, support members with better information and strengthen engagement with industry organisations worldwide.