Africa Domestic Flights
How domestic flights work across Africa: booking, baggage limits, delays, airport logistics, and connection planning.
Last updated: Feb 2026
What to expect on domestic routes
Domestic flights are often the most time-efficient way to cover large distances, but they come with practical constraints.
Aircraft can be smaller, baggage rules can be stricter, and timetables can change—especially in shoulder seasons.
- Check baggage weight and dimensions before you arrive.
- Arrive early for airports with manual check-in.
- Expect schedule changes; keep an email/SMS trail.
Baggage rules and common fees
Many carriers enforce weight limits tightly. If you’re heading to safari airstrips, soft-sided bags may be required.
Budget for extra fees and keep a luggage strategy that works across all legs of your trip.
- Carry essentials in a small day bag.
- Use compression and a luggage scale.
- Keep batteries and valuables in carry-on.
Connections and delays
Avoid tight domestic-to-international connections. If a missed connection would be expensive, overnight in the hub city.
When booking separate tickets, treat them as separate trips: your onward carrier won’t protect you if the first flight slips.
- Aim for 4–8 hours buffer on separate tickets.
- Consider arriving the day before an international flight.
- Keep proof of onward travel if required for entry.
FAQ
How early should I arrive for a domestic flight?
Typically 2 hours is safe. For smaller airports, check local guidance and allow extra time for security/lines.
Do I need printed tickets?
Usually no, but having a PDF offline helps if mobile service is weak.
Are baggage limits strict?
Often yes—especially on smaller aircraft and safari routes.
Should I overnight in a hub before my long-haul flight?
If the long-haul is important, yes. It reduces missed-connection risk.