Leadership Behaviour and Organizational Effectiveness in The African Airline Industry: An Empirical and Theoretical Investigation

This study explores leadership behaviours that drive organizational performance within the African airline sector. Drawing on Yukl’s (2012) taxonomy, which classifies leadership as task, relations, change, and external-oriented, the study examines how these behaviours operate in a highly regulated and risk-sensitive environment. Using qualitative methods, 14 semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior executives and managers across public and private airlines in Sub-Saharan Africa. Thematic analysis confirmed the relevance of Yukl’s framework while revealing its limitations in explaining context-specific complexities. Empathy, tolerance, discipline, decisiveness and timeliness emerged as additional behaviours essential for promoting trust, adaptability, and operational efficiency. Leaders who balanced all behavioural dimensions were most effective in addressing dynamic environmental and regulatory challenges. The findings underscore the need for culturally and industry-sensitive leadership models and training that integrate both established and emergent behaviours.

Originality/Value: This study extends Yukl’s framework by identifying new contextually grounded behaviours that enhance leadership effectiveness in African aviation.