In a recent article for Aviation Week's MRO Digest, AJW's Chief Commercial Officer Scott Symington chatted with journalist Keith Mwanalushi about the developments in the African Market. 

Following AJW Technique's approval as a South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Approved Maintenance Organisation, AJW Group is further enhancing its ability to support operators throughout the region with dependable component repair and maintenance solutions. The certification enables AJW Technique to provide maintenance services on civilian aeronautical components under SACAA oversight, creating additional opportunities to support South African airlines and operators directly. 

South Africa remains one of the continent's most significant aftermarket markets, driven largely by heavily utilised mid-life fleets. According to Scott Symington, Chief Commercial Officer at AJW Group, "Demand in South Africa is very much driven by mid-life fleets, particularly 737NG/Classic, A320ceo, A330 and Embraer ERJs. These aircraft are highly utilised and naturally generate strong demand for component repair, exchange and USM support."

This fleet profile continues to shape maintenance priorities across the region. While newer-generation aircraft are gradually entering service, operators remain focused on maximising value from existing assets through cost-effective repair and exchange solutions. As Symington notes, "It's a very aftermarket-heavy environment, with limited penetration of newer types like A320neo, 737 MAX or Embraer E2." 

Across the wider African market, growth is being driven by fleet expansion and modernisation programmes among several leading carriers. Airlines are introducing aircraft such as the Airbus A350, Boeing 787 and A320neo, creating new opportunities for long-term component support, inventory planning, and supply chain partnerships. Reflecting on the broader regional outlook, Symington says, "Across Africa, the market is busy and growing, with clear opportunities tied to the adoption of newer-generation aircraft like the A350, 787 and A320neo." 

While demand continues to increase, many operators are balancing growth ambitions against ongoing financial pressures. This is reinforcing the need for flexible support programmes that deliver reliability, availability, and cost certainty. At the same time, Africa's dependence on external supply networks and comparatively limited local inventory infrastructure makes strong global aftermarket partnerships particularly important. 

With demand continuing to grow and fleets evolving, AJW Group remains committed to delivering reliable, flexible, and cost-effective component support solutions that help African operators achieve their operational and commercial objectives.