from ADANE BIKILA in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Ethiopia Bureau
ADDIS ABABA, (CAJ News) – ETHIOPIAN Airlines, widely recognised as Africa’s largest and most successful air carrier, has announced revenue of US$4.4 billion for the first six months of the current Ethiopian fiscal year, which began on 8 July 2025.
Speaking at a media briefing in Addis Ababa, Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew confirmed that the figure represents a 14 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, underlining the airline’s sustained growth despite global aviation headwinds.
“The airline has remained on a growth trajectory through generating higher revenue, expanding international networks, increasing passenger and freight services and adding modern aircraft to its fleet,” Tasew said.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a modern fleet of 170 aircraft and flew a total of 333,600 hours during the six-month reporting period.
The carrier transported 10.64 million passengers across more than 145 international destinations, reinforcing its position as the continent’s aviation powerhouse.
On an annual basis, the airline carries well over 20 million passengers, making it Africa’s busiest and most expansive airline network.
Detailing operational milestones, Tasew stated: “We have opened three new destinations, added seven aircrafts into our fleet and carried 10.64 million passengers during the six-month period. In terms of cargo, we carried 451,000 tonnes of cargo, which is 19 percent higher compared to the same period of last year.”
The airline’s cargo division remains a critical revenue driver, benefiting from Addis Ababa’s strategic geographic position linking Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas.
Ethiopian Airlines has invested heavily in cargo infrastructure and freighter aircraft, strengthening supply chains across the continent and supporting African exports.
Despite the impressive results, Tasew acknowledged ongoing challenges.
He cited aircraft shortages, adverse weather conditions, conflicts in various parts of the world and broader global uncertainty as operational constraints.
He further noted that “the U.S. visa policies under President Donald Trump, which restricted entry and limited visa issuance for certain travelers, particularly for those from Africa, affected the airline’s operation.”
Founded in 1945, Ethiopian Airlines has grown into a symbol of African aviation success, consistently ranking among the world’s fastest-growing carriers.
Its continued fleet modernisation, route expansion and diversified revenue streams position it as a key player not only in Africa but in global aviation markets.
– CAJ News