Overview
| | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 (projected) | 2024 (projected) | |
| Total Market Size | 110,000 | 130,000 | 150,000 | 170,000 | |
| Total Local Production | 16,000 | 15.000 | 15,000 | 15,000 | |
| Total Exports | 30,000 | 30,000 | 30,000 | 35,000 | |
| Total Imports | 200,000 | 170,000 | 200,000 | 210,000 | |
| Imports from the U.S. | 130,000 | 140,000 | 180,000 | 200,000 | |
| Exchange Rate: 1 $ | 15.9 | 16.00 |
Unit: $thousand
Total Market Size = (Total Local Production + Total Imports) – (Total Exports)
Note: Above figures exclude the value of the aviation defense procurements.
Date Source: Above figures are unofficial estimates obtained from industry sources.
In 2016, South Africa ranked 76, after Greece, for global U.S. aircraft parts exports. However, the growth of commercial and general aviation in southern Africa has slowed down significantly; high operating costs and a sluggish economy are taking their toll on discount airliners and general aviation. The launch of the African Union’s Single African Transport Air Market, which comprises 28 countries including South Africa, in 2018, provided airlines an opportunity to increase their operations on the continent. The biggest growth is expected in other Sub-Saharan African states as they ramp-up up their capacity to meet long-term growth in passenger travel and air freight. There has been a downturn in airborne offshore utility and mineral deposit surveying done by South African operators in southern and central Africa over the past years. Unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) / drones are however making steady progress for a host of utility and security applications.
South Africa-based civil aviation environment is facing significant challenges to long-term viability. The long-anticipated sustainable turn-around of State-Owned national carrier South African Airways (SAA) remains unclear, despite a qualified commitment from South African private equity consortium Takatso of majority shareholder Harith Global Partners made in 2021 to buy 51 percent equity in SAA as a Strategic Equity Partner (SEP). The discount brand of SAA, Mango, has ceased operations. In June 2022, a privately-owned carrier Kulula and British Airways brands accounting for 40% market share, went into provisional liquidation and ceased operations after operating for more than 75 years. Other private operators FlySafair, Airlink, and Lift are still operating. Delta and United offer regular non-stop flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Sub-Sector Best Prospects
The best prospects for U.S. suppliers are:
- Professional Drone Componentry, Systems, and Training Ground Support Equipment
- Passenger Transport Vehicles
- Cargo De-Grouping and Logistics
- Air Traffic Control
- Security screening systems
Opportunities
There are opportunities in training systems to upgrade the skills pool. New demand for commercial and general aviation solutions from the United States are expected in the following fields:
- Engine Management Systems
- Precision Tooling
- Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Certification
Exhibitions
Africa Aerospace and Defense (AAD) 2024
Land, Sea and Air Systems Show
18 – 22 September 2024
AFB Waterkloof, Pretoria
For More Information, the U.S. Commercial Service in Johannesburg, South Africa, can be contacted via e-mail at: Johan.vanRensburg@trade.gov
phone: +27 11 290 3208
or visit our website: https://www.trade.gov/south-africa/