The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) has launched a landmark research project that aims to advance the understanding, perception and knowledge of the sector across the African continent.

The first phase of the multi-phase initiative has already begun, with the initial results anticipated to be presented at the Aviation Africa event in Nairobi, Kenya, on 9-10 September 2026, a statement by media consultant to the association, Jane Stanbury, said.

The research, conducted by independent behavioural economics and strategic marketing research consultancy Seefeld Group, is designed to deliver the most comprehensive, data-driven view of business aviation across the continent to date.

Under the guidance of the company’s President, Charles Porteous, the much-needed study aimed to gather a unified dataset that would subsequently be used by the association to better understand business aviation in Africa, provide valuable information for AfBAA members, and attract new members to the organisation. The research, initiated by the current AfBAA executive, would ultimately clarify the state of the industry in contemporary Africa.

“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,” said Dawit Lemma, Chairperson of AfBAA.

The first phase, an iterative, data-first technical approach, would comprise fleet, economic and maintenance analyses, as well as a comprehensive review of media perceptions of the industry.

The research would encompass non-scheduled aviation activity, including business jets, turboprops and helicopters, as well as UAVs, reflecting the broad scope of the AfBAA membership.