Addis ababa: Ethiopian Airlines has officially launched a new direct passenger service between Addis Ababa and Port Louis, Mauritius, marking another milestone in the carrier's expanding African network and reinforcing its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity. The inaugural flight is scheduled to depart on 12 July 2026 and will operate three times a week.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the new route to the Indian Ocean island nation underscores Ethiopian Airlines' strategic commitment to deepening continental integration while promoting economic growth across Africa. By expanding regional air connectivity, the service is expected to boost tourism, facilitate trade and investment, strengthen people-to-people ties, and provide an important gateway linking regional markets with Ethiopian Airlines' extensive global network.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadera Abera, highlighted the shared commitment of Ethiopia and Mauritius to advancing African integration and strengthening bilateral cooperation. He expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Mauritius for their steadfast cooperation and invaluable support in making this important milestone a reality. The state minister emphasized that the route represents more than just a new flight; it is a new bridge connecting the two nations, fostering regional integration and creating opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew noted that the new route reflects the airline's enduring commitment to expanding connectivity across Africa. He mentioned that as a Pan-African airline, expanding presence across the continent remains a key part of their mission and long-term strategy. The new service will create seamless connections between Mauritius, mainland Africa, and destinations across the global network, while supporting the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by improving mobility, facilitating commerce, and enhancing economic cooperation among African countries.
Mauritius' Ambassador to Ethiopia, Indrarjeet Bambooa, described the launch as a historic milestone in bilateral relations, stating that the direct air link represents 'the beginning of a new chapter' between Mauritius and Ethiopia. He praised Ethiopian Airlines as Africa's leading carrier and a symbol of African excellence, resilience, and innovation. The new route is expected to reinforce Ethiopian Airlines' leadership in African aviation while contributing to deeper regional integration, greater intra-African trade, and the continent's long-term economic development.