Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier and one of the world’s fastest-growing airline brands, has marked a significant milestone with the graduation of 974 aviation professionals from its Aviation University. The graduation ceremony, held on May 3, 2025, at Ethiopian Aviation University in Addis Ababa, was attended by ambassadors, international representatives, airline executives, graduates’ families, and distinguished guests.

The graduates specialized in various fields including Aircraft Maintenance (184), Pilot Training (43), Cabin Crew (448), Commercial Operations (255), and Hotel Operations (44). The cohort represents a diverse mix of African nationalities, alongside international trainees, with notable representation from China. Among them are 38 Chinese, 34 Congolese, 19 Mozambicans, 8 Cameroonians, 2 Gabonese, and one each from Zambia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Sierra Leone. Of the total graduates, 614 are female and 360 male—underscoring Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to gender inclusion in the aviation industry.

“This is a proud moment for Ethiopian Airlines,” said Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew. “Our graduates have demonstrated exceptional dedication and academic excellence. I am confident they will carry forward the values, skills, and knowledge they have gained here. Ethiopian Aviation University, with its advanced technologies and expert faculty, will remain a beacon of aviation excellence for Africa and beyond.”

Established nearly 70 years ago, Ethiopian Aviation University has trained over 20,000 aviation professionals from Ethiopia, across the continent, and internationally. Since earning university status in March 2023, the institution has expanded its academic offerings to include degree programs such as BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, BSc in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, BSc in Aviation Management, BA in Tourism and Hospitality Management, and an MBA in Aviation Management.

The university currently operates in Addis Ababa, Hawassa, and Dire Dawa, with a capacity to train approximately 4,000 students annually. Under Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term “Vision 2035,” that number is expected to grow to 7,000 in the coming years.

This latest graduation not only reaffirms Ethiopian Airlines’ leadership in aviation training but also highlights its enduring partnership with China. The airline was the first African carrier to establish direct flights to China in 1973, a relationship that continues to deepen through education and skill transfer.