As Africa’s fastest-growing aviation group, the Ethiopian Airlines Group has become a shining example of Ethiopia’s ambitions to cement its place as a major player in the global aviation industry. Founded in 1945, the state-owned flag carrier has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, emerging as one of the continent’s most successful and profitable airlines.
Many agree that at the heart of Ethiopian Airlines’ success is its strategic location in Addis Ababa, which has positioned the carrier as a key hub connecting Africa to the rest of the world. The Airline’s extensive network spans more than 127 international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents, making it a vital link for travelers and cargo moving in and out of the African continent.
“Ethiopian Airlines has capitalized on Ethiopia’s geographic position to establish Addis Ababa as a premier global aviation hub. By continuously expanding our route network and fleet, we have been able to offer travelers seamless connectivity while also supporting the growth of trade and tourism in Ethiopia and across Africa.” Tewolde GebreMariam, the group’s Ex CEO said at a time.
The Airline’s fleet of 134 modern and fuel-efficient aircrafts, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s, has been central to its expansion strategy. In 2019, the carrier took delivery of its 100th aircraft, cementing its position as Africa’s largest airline by fleet size.
Beyond its core passenger business, the Ethiopian Airlines Group has also diversified into other aviation-related ventures, including aircraft maintenance, aviation academy, in-flight catering, and ground services. These subsidiaries have not only bolstered the group’s revenue streams but also contributed to the development of Ethiopia’s broader aviation ecosystem.
The group’s success has also had a significant impact on Ethiopia’s economic development. As the country’s flag carrier and largest employer, Ethiopian Airlines has been instrumental in boosting tourism, facilitating trade, and supporting the growth of other industries. The airline’s extensive global network has made it easier for businesses to access international markets, while its investments in infrastructure, such as the 362 million USD Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, have helped to attract more visitors to the country.
While talking about its multifaceted significance, former CEO of the Airline, Girma Wake, once said, “Ethiopian Airlines is not just an airline, but a strategic national asset that has played a crucial role in Ethiopia’s economic transformation. Its success has been a source of immense national pride and a testament to the country’s ambitions to become a leading aviation hub in Africa.”
As the aviation industry continues to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ethiopian Airlines Group has remained well-positioned to capitalize on the eventual recovery. With its robust financial position, diverse business portfolio, and ambitious growth plans, the carrier is poised to cement its status as a dominant force in African aviation for years to come.
According to ENA’s report, the Ethiopian Airlines Group has inaugurated its renovated and expanded Domestic Passenger Terminal on 18 May, 2024. During the occasion, the Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tassew said that the airline has spent 50 million USD for the renovation and expansion of the terminal, which increases its capacity by more than 100 %.
Beyond increasing its capacity, the goal of Ethiopian Airlines is to provide an international level of services to our domestic passengers, he said. This focus on passenger experience aligns with the airline’s broader vision of solidifying Ethiopia’s position as a global tourism destination. So, he added that it is their dream and vision to continue expanding their domestic air transport service for the benefit of Ethiopians and tourists who are coming to Ethiopia to visit the exciting destinations of the country.
“The renovation and expansion of the terminal was intended to cope up with the growing demand of domestic transport service. Ethiopian Airlines has a strong commitment to continue enhancing the development and expansion of domestic air transport, which is vital for both the social and economic development of the country. As you all are well informed, we are investing a lot to construct new airport runways at this time, we are constructing five runways and we’re also upgrading terminal facilities in other domestic airports,” the CEO elaborated.
On her part, Minister of Tourism, Nasisie Chali said that the inauguration of the renovated and expanded domestic passenger terminal is crucial for Ethiopia’s image building and tourism expansion. Any such development efforts by Ethiopian Airlines have direct bearing on tourism sector of the country.
State Minister of Ethiopian Transport and Logistics, Bareo Hassen on his part said that Ethiopian Airlines is playing key role in the transport and logistics sector. The renovation and expansion of the terminal will increase its services and competition, he added.
Here are some key ways the Ethiopian Airlines Group is expected to further expand and become the preferred transportation option: Ethiopian Airlines plans to continue growing its fleet of modern and fuel-efficient aircrafts. This will allow it to expand its route network, increase frequencies, and provide a more comfortable passenger experience. The Airline is expected to take delivery of more Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s in the coming years.
The Airline aims to expand its route network to reach more destinations across Africa, as well as key international markets in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. This will enhance its position as a global connectivity hub, funneling more passengers and cargo through its Addis Ababa base.
In addition to its main hub in Addis Ababa, The Ethiopian is developing secondary hubs in cities like Lomé, Togo and Lilongwe, Malawi. It is also expanding its code share and joint venture partnerships to feed more traffic into its network.
The Airline Group continues to grow its non-airline businesses, including aircraft maintenance, aviation training, in-flight catering, and ground handling services. This diversification strengthens its revenue streams and makes it more resilient.
Investments in lounges, in-flight wifi, and other passenger amenities are aimed at enhancing the customer experience and making Ethiopian Airlines the preferred choice for travelers.
As part of its ambitious growth plans, The Ethiopian is focusing on reducing its environmental footprint through initiatives like fuel efficiency programs and the use of more sustainable aviation fuels. By executing on these strategic priorities, the Ethiopian Airlines Group is expected to solidify its position as Africa’s leading aviation group and a global aviation powerhouse in the years ahead.
BY LAKACHEW ATINAFU
The Ethiopian herald May 26/2024
