The figures were released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) during the 9th edition of the Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition that opened in Kigali on 4 September 2025.
The meeting has brought together more than 1,600 aviation stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing the industry.
IATA's report "The Value of Air Transport to Rwanda," which covered the year 2023, highlighted the value of air transport to Rwanda, showing that the sector directly supports over 29,000 jobs nationwide.
This includes employment created by airlines, airports, on-site businesses, air navigation services, and aircraft manufacturing and maintenance.
The report further noted that more than 2,900 people are directly employed in Rwanda's aviation sector, generating $8.9 million, equivalent to 0.1% of GDP.
Overall, the air transport value chain contributed $160.2 million (1.1% of GDP) and supported 42,000 jobs through supply chains, employee spending, and tourism-related activities.
Every year, international visitors are estimated to contribute nearly $688 million to Rwanda's economy through purchases of goods and services from local businesses.
The report also underscored aviation's critical role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stating: 'Air transport contributes to quality education, social and family connectivity, cultural exchange, and community development. By working together, nations can expand productivity, promote sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty.'
In 2023, Rwanda's airports handled around 16,500 tonnes of cargo, while 95% of all passenger traffic was international, amounting to 447,400 trips. Domestic flights accounted for just 5%.
Regionally, 56% of Rwandan travelers flew within Africa, 21% to Europe, and 12% to North America. The top 10 destinations were Nairobi, Kampala, Brussels, Johannesburg, Dubai, Lagos, Paris, Dar es Salaam, Bujumbura, and London.
Since 2014, Rwanda's international air connectivity has grown by 23% within Africa and by 326% with the rest of the world.
Passenger flow data shows that 66% of travelers either ended their journey in Rwanda or continued by road and other transport modes, while 34% transited through Kigali International Airport to other destinations.
Looking ahead, RwandAir is projected to carry 1.2 million passengers by 2026, up from 1 million in 2023/2024. By 2028/2029, passengers are expected to reach 2.1 million, supported by a fleet expansion to 21 aircrafts.
IGIHE
