ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopian Airlines is experiencing rapid growth, with ambitious targets to transport over 60 million passengers by 2035, according to Mesfin Tasew, the Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Mesfin outlined the airline’s strategy to achieve this vision, emphasizing an integrated approach that encompasses both the expansion of flight services and improvements in infrastructure.
He noted that to meet these goals, the airline plans to launch new routes and increase the frequency of existing ones.
Key to this expansion is the acquisition of new aircraft, along with the hiring and training of a large number of staff, including pilots and flight attendants. Significant infrastructure improvements are also underway, particularly at Bole International Airport.
Mesfin highlighted that expanding airport infrastructure, maintenance capacity, and cargo facilities are all essential to support growth.
“Without an integrated approach, progress in one area could lag behind, rendering efforts ineffective. Therefore, we are investing heavily across multiple fronts to meet these demands,” he said.
The airline is also focused on enhancing its maintenance capabilities and recruiting additional staff to address the growing need for skilled professionals. While new planes have been ordered, their delivery has been delayed, temporarily creating a shortage of aircraft, according to Mesfin.
To further improve domestic air travel, the airline is constructing six new airports to meet the increasing demand for local flights. “By modernizing existing facilities and building new ones, we aim to maintain double-digit growth and sustain our trajectory,” Mesfin explained.
Ethiopian Airlines has long played a pivotal role in Africa’s development, particularly in supporting the African Union (AU). The airline facilitated travel for leaders when the AU was established, ensuring they could travel to Addis Ababa with ease. Since then, Ethiopian Airlines has continued to support AU activities by providing reliable air transport for meetings and events.
Addis Ababa, as the diplomatic heart of Africa and home to many international organizations, relies heavily on Ethiopian Airlines to ensure that leaders and delegates can travel efficiently to and from the city. Beyond Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Airlines also facilitates travel for leaders attending AU meetings across the continent, ensuring a seamless journey for all.
Mesfin also highlighted the airline’s role in supporting the African Peace Fund, established during the 38th AU summit. “As a valuable African asset, Ethiopian Airlines is committed to this initiative and continues to connect Africa with the world. Our dedication to providing accessible, comfortable, and reliable air travel for all remains unwavering,” he said.
Through its ongoing expansion and continued service to the AU and the broader African continent, Ethiopian Airlines reaffirms its role in uniting Africa and enhancing its global presence.
By GIRMACHEW GASHAW
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 23 FEBRUARY 2025
