Addis Ababa, May 22, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Temesgen Truneh, lauded Ethiopian Airlines for its historic contributions to the nation and its global standing at the airline’s 80th Anniversary Dinner held this evening.
The event marked eight decades of Ethiopian Airlines’ operations, celebrating its resilience through wars, political transitions, economic challenges, and global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Attendees highlighted the airline’s role in advancing aviation, supporting trade and tourism, connecting Ethiopians to the world, and elevating the country’s international reputation.
Following the event, Temesgen Truneh emphasized in a social media post that the airline’s impact extends beyond aviation. He noted that it has strengthened the economy, connected Ethiopians globally, supported trade and tourism, created opportunities, and elevated Ethiopia’s standing among nations.
He further described Ethiopian Airlines as a symbol of resilience and progress for Ethiopia, for Africa, and for people of African descent everywhere, reflecting the country’s determination, dignity, and limitless potential.
Reflecting on the airline’s legacy, the Deputy Prime Minister said it is “more than an airline” and a “living testament to African excellence, discipline, and possibility.”
He noted that over eighty years, through war, political upheaval, economic hardship, and global uncertainty, Ethiopian Airlines has continued to rise steadily and ambitiously, carrying not only passengers across continents but also the pride and aspirations of the nation.
He praised the airline’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that while many around the world struggled to stay afloat, Ethiopian Airlines reached for the skies with courage and innovation, adapting with the resilience, dynamism, and pioneering spirit that have long defined it.
Mr. Temesgen highlighted the human effort behind the airline’s enduring success, commending pilots, engineers, cabin crew, technicians, administrators, and countless Ethiopians who dedicated their careers to building the institution. He added that the airline’s achievements were forged through visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
He expressed optimism for the airline’s future, stating that it will continue to soar with courage and glory toward its centennial and far beyond.