Ethiopian Airlines Sustains Legacy of Excellence, Reaffirms Commitment to Greater Global Competitiveness

Addis Ababa, May 24, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Airlines has maintained its trajectory of success and vision, Board of Directors Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of the Ethiopian Air Force, Yilma Merdasa said, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to continued growth and competitiveness.

The closing ceremony marking the 80th Anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines was held at Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa recently in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew, and invited guests.

Speaking on the occasion, the Board Chairman said the airline remains on the path to success by overcoming the challenges it encounters.

He described Ethiopian Airlines as a unique institution that has earned broad international recognition for its modern and high-quality services.

According to him, the airline is undertaking extensive efforts to develop strategies aimed at further strengthening its competitiveness at the international level, beyond its status as Africa’s leading airline.

The airline has also consolidated its achievements through multi-faceted activities carried out in line with government directions over the past eight years of reform, he noted.

Lt. Gen. Yilma Merdasa affirmed that the airline will continue working with strong determination toward even greater success.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew stated that the airline, which began its historic journey to Cairo, has now expanded its network to 145 destinations across five continents.

The company currently operates 147 modern aircraft, he added.

The CEO noted that Ethiopian Airlines has become Africa’s leading carrier by transporting more than 20 million passengers annually.

During the past eight years of the reform period, the number of new aircraft increased by 47 percent, the number of customers rose by 97 percent, annual revenue grew by 121 percent, and profit increased threefold.

Mesfin underscored that the airline is built on a solid foundation and will continue strengthening the values behind its achievements.