Ethiopia and Uganda have signed a sweeping air service agreement that significantly liberalizes air travel between the two nations. The deal was finalized during the 4th Ethiopia-Uganda Joint Ministerial Commission meeting held at Addis Ababa’s Skylight Hotel this week.  

The landmark agreement eliminates multiple restrictions that previously governed air transport between the countries. It grants airlines from both nations unrestricted access to routes, destinations, and traffic rights. The pact also removes limitations on aircraft types and allows for greater airline representation in each other’s markets.  

Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority Director General Getachew Mengiste and Uganda’s Transport Minister Fred Byamukama formalized the agreement. The signing represents a concrete step toward implementing the African Union’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative, which aims to create a unified air transport market across the continent.  

Industry analysts suggest the agreement could lead to increased flight frequencies, more competitive fares, and enhanced connectivity between Ethiopia and Uganda. The deal is particularly significant for Ethiopia’s aviation sector, as the country seeks to expand its position as Africa’s leading air transport hub.  

The liberalized air service arrangement comes as African nations work to boost intra-continental trade and tourism through improved air links. Both Ethiopia and Uganda stand to benefit from increased business travel, cargo operations, and passenger traffic under the new framework.  

Aviation experts note that such agreements typically lead to increased airline competition and service improvements. However, successful implementation will depend on infrastructure development and regulatory harmonization between the two nations.