Addis Ababa, December 24, 2025 (FMC) — The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) has launched a dedicated website to mark its 90th anniversary celebration. The public can now access comprehensive information on the milestone at etaf90years.com.
In a statement, the Air Force also invited the public to participate in the upcoming celebrations.
According to the statement, although aviation technology was introduced in Ethiopia on August 18, 1929, the Ethiopian Air Force was officially established on November 29, 1935, when Major General Mishka Babchef was appointed its first commander.
Over its 90-year history, the Ethiopian Air Force has earned a distinguished reputation for protecting the country’s sovereignty, conducting international peacekeeping missions, and raising Ethiopia’s flag abroad. The institution has also served as an ambassador of peace, producing a legacy of victories, sacrifices, and international training for air force professionals from other nations.
The 90th anniversary will be celebrated next month under the theme: “The Ethiopian Air Force is a Symbol of Freedom and Unity.”
The celebration has already begun with various events, including an international 10-kilometer road race held on November 31, 2025, in Bishoftu city. Conducted under the theme “I will run with all my might for the development of the Air Force,” the race brought the community together, promoted Bishoftu as a tourist destination, and laid the foundation for the main anniversary celebrations.
Next month’s events will feature an aerial show, “Sky of Lions! Ethiopia,” performed by the Ethiopian Air Force along with the United Arab Emirates Air Force, Russian Air Force Show Team, Moroccan Air Force, and Czech Republic Air Force.
The celebrations will also include “Building the Future of Aviation Capability Together”, followed by the Static Display and Aviation Technology Expo 2026, featuring ETAF, Ethiopian Airlines, and more than 25 major local and international aviation and technology companies from China, India, the US, South Africa, and other countries.
Additionally, the Future Africa Air Forces Forum will convene for the third time under the theme “Strengthening Our Joint Efforts to Build a Stable World,” bringing together leading aviation experts to underscore Ethiopia’s strong ties to aviation technology.
As part of the anniversary programs, senior military commanders and government officials will engage the public in discussions under the theme “Celebrating the Honor of Serving the Country.”
The anniversary website, etaf90years.com, provides details on the full schedule of events, the Air Force’s history, the institution’s transformation over the decades, and options to purchase entrance tickets or follow events online.
The Ethiopian Air Force highlighted its 90-year legacy of sacrifice and bravery in protecting the nation’s airspace, strengthening Ethiopia, producing heroic personnel, and inspiring generations of aviation professionals.
The Air Force emphasized that the anniversary events will commemorate its history, showcase its current capabilities, enhance the country’s image, and inspire the future of Ethiopian aviation.
The Ethiopian Air Force called on the public to join the celebrations, honor the heroes of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), and witness the institution’s pride and achievements during this historic milestone.