While we’ve yet to see an African airline come close to wowing global customers in the same way as Singapore Airlines, Emirates or Qatar Airways do, competition is fierce at continental level for the right to claim the top spot on the best airlines in Africa list.
- Ethiopian Airlines
- South African Airways
- Air Mauritius
- Air Seychelles
- Kenya Airways
- Royal Air Maroc
- TAAG Angola Airlines
- Fastjet
- Kulula
- Mango
Africa’s third largest carrier Ethiopian Airlines has had a 2017 to remember, winning the accolade of Best Airline in Africa in this year’s Skytrax World Airline Awards. The continent’s most accomplished carrier, in 2016 it made a greater profit than all the other African airlines combined. It boasts a 25% annual growth rate and ambitious expansion plans. But the Skytrax awards are based on passenger satisfaction, so what is it that consumers value about this state owned success? Customer service is key. The airline runs its own training academy, whose ethos is built around integrity, commitment and teamwork. In the air, the passenger is treated with respect and courtesy – and that goes down well with those who fly Ethiopian.
Snapping at Ethiopian’s heels in the 2017 awards was South African Airways. This Star Alliance partner is the second largest African carrier by passenger numbers and serves over seventy destinations worldwide. In these cost-cutting times, SAA’s full service approach continues to win plaudits from its customers, who rate its friendly cabin crew highly, as well as giving positive reviews for food, bar service and legroom.
The inclusion of Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles in the top ten best airlines of Africa results reminds us that Africa extends beyond its mainland territories. But though TAAG Angolan Airlines might be a surprise to find in the top ten – though deserving of a slot – the placing of Kenya Airways and Royal Air Maroc, two of the continent’s most far-reaching carriers, is not. The pair have, along with the likes of Turkish Airlines and of course Ethiopian, positioned themselves as convenient and competitive hubs to access the lucrative European traveller market. But of course to keep your customers loyal, it comes down to more than just price. Kenya Airways staff members mix professionalism with a warm and friendly welcome. Royal Air Maroc’s Magic Universe is a boon for families, thoughtfully providing toys and games to occupy the children during the flight so parents can relax too.
Rounding off the top ten are three budget carriers: Fastjet, Kulula and Mango. Low cost airlines have transformed air travel in the past couple of decades and Africa’s no exception when it comes to welcoming this no frills approach. Fastjet’s been on the scenes since 2011. Boss Ed Winter previously worked for easyJet and adopting the same approach for the African market is working well. Kulula’s instantly recognisable green planes have been around for a decade longer, its wisecracking cabin crews delighting passengers across southern Africa. Mango’s colourful livery is also making a mark. Its flash sales are winning it favour with customers keen to snap up a bargain. This ambitious trio are definitely a force to be reckoned with.
Based in Barcelona when she’s not traveling, Jen is a travel blogger and photographer. She loves inspiring people to travel and discover the world. An ex-flight attendant, Jen has expertise in the airline industry.
