African airlines are expected to take delivery of 73 new aircraft in 2010 – making it a peak year for deliveries to the region, after 42 deliveries last year, 26 in 2008 and 39 in 2007. Approximately 66 aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2011, according to Ascend fleet data. The 74% year-on-year increase in deliveries in 2010 reflects the growing optimism in the African continent amid a resources-led economic revival, and the recent success of some of the region’s rising star airlines. Egyptair and Ethiopian Airlines will take delivery of the greatest number of aircraft (ten each) in 2010, to lead the regional tally.