Addis ababa: Ethiopian Airlines has launched a new passenger service to Lyon, France, expanding its European network and reinforcing the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and France. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew, French Ambassador to Ethiopia Alexis Lamek, and senior executives of the airline.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Mesfin stated that Lyon is Ethiopian Airlines' 23rd destination in Europe and its third in France, following Paris and Marseille. He emphasized that the new route demonstrates the airline's commitment to expanding its global network while deepening bilateral ties between Ethiopia and France.
"The launch of the Lyon route will further strengthen the relationship between our two countries and create greater opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange," Mesfin added. He also revealed plans for Ethiopian Airlines to launch five additional international destinations by the end of 2026 as part of its continued global expansion strategy. "As Africa's leading airline, we will continue investing to support the economic integration of the continent and strengthen connectivity between Africa and the rest of the world," he said.
The CEO invited French companies to participate in the development of the Bishoftu International Airport project, describing it as a significant opportunity for investment and long-term cooperation. French Ambassador to Ethiopia Alexis Lamek welcomed the launch of the new route, highlighting the growing partnership between Ethiopia and France. "I am pleased to see Ethiopia and France continuing to expand their relationship," the ambassador stated, adding that the new direct service will further strengthen economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
The inaugural flight to Lyon, one of France's leading economic and cultural centers, is scheduled to depart on Thursday, marking the start of regular passenger services. This new route further consolidates Ethiopian Airlines' position as Africa's largest carrier and advances its strategy of strengthening Addis Ababa's role as a major aviation hub linking Africa with Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.