Ethiopian Airlines, founded in 1945, is the flag carrier of Ethiopia and one of Africa’s leading airlines. Headquartered in Addis Ababa, it operates from its primary hub at Bole International Airport. Renowned for its extensive network, it connects over 120 international and domestic destinations. Ethiopian Airlines is a member of the Star Alliance, reflecting its global reach and quality of service. It is recognized for its modern fleet, commitment to safety, and strong operational performance, making it a pivotal player in the aviation industry in Africa and beyond.
Services
- Cloud Nine Business Class : Offers luxurious seats that recline to fully flat beds, personal in-flight entertainment, gourmet meals, and access to exclusive lounges.
- ShebaMiles Loyalty Program : Frequent flyer program providing members with benefits like priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and access to partner airline services.
- In-flight Entertainment : State-of-the-art personal screens with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games for all passengers.
- Onboard Dining : Ethiopian and international cuisine options prepared with fresh ingredients, catering to various dietary preferences and restrictions.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity : On selected flights, passengers can stay connected with in-flight Wi-Fi for browsing, emailing, and social media.
- Special Assistance : Comprehensive support for passengers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance, special meals, and unaccompanied minor services.
- Cargo Services : Extensive cargo network with temperature-controlled shipping, live animal transport, and general freight services.
Expriences
- Akon : Praised the airline for its exceptional service and comfort during his trip to Addis Ababa. He highlighted the warm hospitality and efficient service.
- Lupita Nyong'o : Shared her positive experience on social media, noting the attentive crew and the comfortable flight from Nairobi to Los Angeles.
- Trevor Noah : Comedian Trevor Noah appreciated the seamless service and punctuality on his flight to Johannesburg, describing it as one of his best flying experiences.
Interesting Facts
- First African Boeing 787 : Ethiopian Airlines was the first African carrier to own and operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
- Environmental Initiatives : Committed to sustainability, it operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in Africa.
- Historical Milestone : Celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2020, marking decades of aviation leadership in Africa.
- Expanding Network : Regularly adds new destinations, enhancing connectivity between Africa and the rest of the world.
- Training Academy : Operates one of the largest and most advanced aviation training centers in Africa
Frequent Flyers
- Eleni Gabre-Madhin : Praised the reliability and comfort during her frequent business travels across Africa.
- Haile Gebrselassie : Frequently uses Ethiopian Airlines, appreciating its efficiency and world-class service.
- Sir Bob Geldof : Regularly travels with Ethiopian Airlines for his humanitarian missions, noting its excellent service and extensive network.
- Richard Quest : CNN journalist who often flies with Ethiopian Airlines, lauding its safety and professional staff.
- Eliud Kipchoge : Marathon champion who chooses Ethiopian Airlines for its comfort and punctuality during his international travels.
Myths
- Only Flies to Africa : It flies to over 120 destinations worldwide, not just within Africa.
- Old Fleet : It boasts one of the youngest and most modern fleets in Africa.
- Limited In-flight Entertainment : Offers extensive in-flight entertainment options comparable to other leading airlines.
Offbeat Destinations
- Mombasa, Kenya : A coastal city known for its beaches and rich Swahili culture.
- Asmara, Eritrea : Renowned for its Italian colonial architecture and art deco buildings.
- Lilongwe, Malawi : Capital city with a blend of modern and traditional African experiences.
- Dire Dawa, Ethiopia : Offers unique cultural and historical insights in Eastern Ethiopia.
- Blantyre, Malawi : Known for its historical landmarks and vibrant local markets.
- Juba, South Sudan : A city on the rise, showcasing the resilience and culture of South Sudan.
- Ndola, Zambia : A gateway to the Copperbelt region with rich mining history.
- Goma, DR Congo : Located on Lake Kivu, offering stunning volcanic landscapes.
- Zanzibar, Tanzania : Famous for its pristine beaches and historical Stone Town.
- Mogadishu, Somalia : Reemerging as a destination with rich history and cultural significance.
Useful Resources
Awards
- Skytrax Awards : Multiple recognitions including Best Airline in Africa and Best Business Class in Africa.
- Aviation 100 Awards : Airline of the Year for multiple years.
- AFRAA Awards : Best Airline in Africa and Best Cargo Airline in Africa.