Air Transport Adds USD 3.8 Billion to Tanzania’s GDP

AAir Transport Adds USD 3.8 Billion to Tanzania’s GDP

Air Transport Adds USD 3.8 Billion to Tanzania’s GDP

Data highlights (Oxford Economics / IATA / WTTC) • 2023/2024
The air transport industry supports more than 710,000 jobs in Tanzania and contributes approximately USD 3.8 billion to the national GDP, driving tourism, trade, and wider socio-economic benefits.

Key Findings

USD 3.8 bnTotal contribution to GDP
711,000Total jobs supported
16,500Direct aviation jobs
29,800 tAir cargo handled (2023)

Overview

The aviation sector in Tanzania directly employs an estimated 16,500 people and generates USD 131.4 million in direct economic output (about 0.2% of GDP). When indirect and induced effects are included — particularly tourism supported by air connectivity — the sector’s total contribution rises to approximately USD 3.8 billion, supporting roughly 711,000 jobs nationwide.

Tourism is the largest economic channel through which aviation benefits the wider economy: international visitors supported by flights contributed roughly USD 3.4 billion in 2023 and employed over 614,000 people across hospitality, transport and other services.

Social and Economic Benefits

Aviation extends far beyond passenger transport. It provides essential connectivity for healthcare, education, and business, especially for remote regions. The decline in real airfares — a 43% reduction between 2011 and 2023 — has improved affordability, though Tanzanians still need an estimated 58.8 days of work to afford an average ticket in 2023.

Air cargo remains crucial to Tanzania’s trade and emergency logistics. In 2023, airports in the country handled 29,800 tonnes of cargo, supporting imports, exports and e-commerce growth.

Connectivity and Passenger Flows

In 2023, international departures represented 43% of Tanzania’s origin-destination passenger traffic (about 1.5 million departures). Europe was the top international region, followed by Africa and the Middle East. Top city destinations from Tanzania included Nairobi, Dubai, Paris, Johannesburg and Frankfurt.

Since 2014, Tanzania’s international air connectivity index has expanded — up 21% within Africa and 128% with other regions — reflecting growth in routes, seats and airlines serving the country.

Implications & Recommendations

To maximise aviation’s catalytic benefits, policymakers and industry stakeholders should prioritise:

  • Targeted infrastructure upgrades at key airports to support capacity and cargo handling.
  • Policies that reduce travel costs and encourage route development to diversify markets.
  • Investment in workforce training and safety oversight to raise service quality and international confidence.
  • Measures to sustainably grow tourism while protecting natural assets.

What's next

Aviation is a strategic enabler of Tanzania’s economic and social development. With coordinated policy, investment and industry collaboration, the sector can expand its positive impact—creating jobs, connecting communities, and supporting long-term prosperity.

Sources

Oxford Economics (2023) — The Value of Air Transport to the United Republic of Tanzania; Air Transport Action Group; IATA Direct Data Solutions (2023); World Travel & Tourism Council (2023).

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