From the fresh produce fields of Kenya to the mineral corridors of Central Africa, demand for air cargo solutions is rising across the continent. But so too are the challenges: infrastructure gaps, political volatility, and uneven import-export balances are forcing operators to think smarter, faster, and partner more deeply on the ground.
As African markets shift and new trade hubs emerge, Magma is adjusting its footprint to match demand. While West Africa has slowed, East Africa—particularly Kenya—has emerged as a powerhouse, and North Africa is showing growth in cities like Cairo and Casablanca.
“What’s changed is the scale and sophistication,” Peter Kerins, CEO of Magma Aviation, noted. “Africa still exports produce and imports trade-driven goods, but now we’re seeing more structured operations, higher volumes, and better coordination. Our job is to stay nimble and responsive.”
While oil and gas cargo are often seen as key segments within the region, Kerins explained how operations increasingly are going far beyond oversized industrial freight: “Africa remains the foundation of Magma. Markets like West Africa were incredibly strong a decade ago—less so now due to currency issues or changing import flows. But we’ve stayed committed. Even when capacity out of China was tight last year, we didn’t pull back from Africa. It’s still our core focus.”
“We do handle oil and gas cargo, but most of what we carry is standard freight—vehicles, pharmaceuticals, humanitarian aid.
Navigating challenges
Despite strong infrastructure in cities like Nairobi and Johannesburg, many parts of Africa present logistical challenges for time-critical cargo.
“Africa has always been at the centre of our operations,” Kerins explained. “And that’s exactly where it will stay.
“We know exactly which airports might have limited ground handling equipment or risk delays,” he added. “If we’re not confident the operation will run smoothly, we simply don’t fly. Our crew sometimes prefer to overnight in Nairobi rather than risk operational complications elsewhere.”
Evolving fleet
While Magma Aviation continues to operate Boeing 747s, one of the largest freighters in the skies, the aircraft’s time is limited, with the future lying in next-generation aircraft such as the 777 or A350.
“The 747 has been a phenomenal workhorse, but we’re planning for the future,” Kerins stated. “We’re exploring converted aircraft as a bridge strategy, but availability is limited. Between supply chain issues, certification delays, and labor strikes, the runway for older aircraft is likely to be longer than many expected.”
Amid this change, Magma is currently developing its 2030 fleet strategy, with a strong focus on sustainability and long-term viability. “We won’t replace just to tick a box—we want to be strategic and sustainable.”
Local insights
Success in Africa requires more than widebody aircraft. For Magma, it’s the local partnerships—some going back to the company’s inception—that allow it to bridge last-mile gaps in regions where air cargo alone isn’t enough.
“Our real edge lies in flexibility and local expertise,” Kerin outlined. “Thanks to our partnership with the Chapman Freeborn Group, we’re able to manage complex handling and permitting across the region.
“Whether it’s trucking beyond the airport or working with smaller regional carriers, these partners bring local knowledge that we don’t always have,” Kerins said. “They help us operate more efficiently and safely, especially in markets where infrastructure is still catching up.”
That local intel is especially vital in politically unstable regions, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo or areas facing conflict or civil unrest. “We constantly monitor developments on the ground,” he said. “Security is non-negotiable—for our aircraft, our crew, and our clients.”
