@AviationIndustry – Ethiopian Business Review

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Ethiopian Airlines has reported a remarkable USD 5.6 billion in revenue during the first nine months of the current Ethiopian fiscal year, marking an 8% year-on-year growth. The milestone underscores the national carrier’s resilience and strategic momentum as it powers forward with its long-term Vision 2035 plan.

In an interview with the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), CEO Mesfin Tasew attributed the success to expanded routes, fleet growth, and increased passenger volume. Over the period, the airline launched four new international destinations, took delivery of 10 additional aircraft, and transported 14.5 million passengers—a 13% increase compared to the same period last year.

Among the new aircraft is Africa’s largest Airbus A350-1000, positioning Ethiopian Airlines at the forefront of aviation modernization on the continent.

Looking ahead, the airline plans to deepen its global footprint, with new routes planned to India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). CEO Mesfin also revealed that two more aircraft will be delivered in June alone, signaling continued investment in capacity and service delivery.

In infrastructure, Ethiopian Airlines is progressing toward its long-term goal of establishing a world-class aviation hub. Construction of a new mega-airport in Bishoftu is set to begin in November next year, with preparatory efforts underway to relocate farmers affected by the development.

Ethiopian Airlines has officially launched a new cargo charter route connecting Macao and Madrid, further cementing its position as Africa’s leading freight carrier. The inaugural flight, operated by a Boeing 777 freighter (ET3483), took off from Macao International Airport on Thursday morning, marking a strategic expansion into East Asia-Europe trade lanes.

The new route, initially operating twice weekly, is expected to handle over 20,000 tons of cross-border cargo annually, significantly enhancing trade flows between China’s Greater Bay Area, Europe, and South America. Key exports include high-demand e-commerce goods such as electronics, auto parts, apparel, cosmetics, toys, and small appliances.

This launch follows Ethiopian Airlines’ successful cargo operations in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, reinforcing its role as a critical logistics bridge between Asia, Africa, and beyond. Aman Wole Gurmu, Ethiopian Airlines’ Country Director for China, emphasized the route’s potential to deepen collaboration with e-commerce supply chains in the Greater Bay Area, a major manufacturing and trade hub.

A representative from Macao International Airport welcomed the partnership, stating that the new route will “unlock greater trade and economic opportunities” between Macao, Europe, and emerging markets. The move aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy to capitalize on booming global e-commerce demand while enhancing Africa’s connectivity to key global markets.

Ethiopian Airlines Hits USD5.6B in 9 Month Revenue

Ethiopian Airlines Expands Global Cargo Network with New Macao-Madrid Route