Addis Ababa, October 29, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia is the sole African candidate for membership in the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), seeking to strengthen Africa’s representation in global aviation governance.
In an update shared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ethiopia highlighted its longstanding contributions to international civil aviation, technical expertise and commitment to advancing the continent’s interests in shaping global aviation policies.
As a founding member of both ICAO and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), Ethiopia brings decades of institutional experience and a strong record in aviation safety, security and capacity building, according to the ministry.
Ethiopia’s international aviation role is further underpinned by its strategic location connecting Africa with Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Through Ethiopian Airlines, an extensive international air services network, and capabilities in aviation training, aircraft maintenance and cargo operations, the country contributes to global connectivity.
Ethiopia’s candidacy has also received diplomatic recognition at the BRICS level.
The New Delhi Declaration, adopted at the bloc’s summit in September 2026, welcomed Ethiopia’s candidacy for an additional seat on the ICAO Council, noting its status as the sole African candidate endorsed by the African Union.
If elected to the ICAO Council, Ethiopia says it will work to advance the organization’s objectives, promote safer and more secure aviation, strengthen international cooperation and support ICAO’s “No Country Left Behind” initiative, which seeks to ensure that all countries benefit from sustainable aviation development.
The ICAO Council serves as the organization’s governing body between Assembly sessions, overseeing the implementation of its policies and making decisions on international civil aviation matters.
An extraordinary session of the ICAO Assembly is scheduled for November 19–20, 2026, in Montréal, Canada, to elect four additional Council members following the Council’s expansion from 36 to 40 seats.