Addis ababa: Ethiopian Airlines has maintained its trajectory of success and vision, as affirmed by the Board of Directors Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of the Ethiopian Air Force, Lt. Gen. Yilma Merdasa, who reiterated the airline's commitment to continued growth and competitiveness.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the closing ceremony of the 80th Anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines was held at Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa last night. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew, and other invited guests. During the occasion, the Board of Directors Chairman emphasized that the airline remains on the path to success, overcoming the challenges it faces.
Lt. Gen. Yilma Merdasa highlighted Ethiopian Airlines as a unique institution that has received high recognition from international bodies for its excellent and modern services. He mentioned that the airline is actively developing a strategy to enhance its competitiveness on the international stage, beyond its status as Africa's best airline. Additionally, the airline has strengthened its position through various activities aligned with government directions over the past eight years of transformation. Lt. Gen. Merdasa assured that the airline will continue working with determination towards greater success.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, shared insights into the airline's expansion, noting that it has grown from its initial journey to Cairo to operating flights to 145 destinations across five continents. Currently, the airline operates 147 modern aircraft. Mesfin emphasized that Ethiopian Airlines has become Africa's leading carrier, transporting over 20 million passengers annually. Over the past eight years, the airline has seen a 47 percent increase in new aircraft, a 97 percent rise in customer numbers, a 121 percent growth in annual revenue, and a threefold increase in profit. He underscored that the airline is built on a solid foundation and is committed to strengthening the values that underpin its achievements.