Founded: 1945
Headquarters: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Main hub: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
Ethiopian Airlines is the flag carrier of Ethiopia and the largest airline in Africa. Its hub in Addis Ababa connects the continent with the rest of the world, and for travellers from Israel it is one of the most common ways to reach destinations across Africa – from safaris in Kenya and Tanzania to Zanzibar, South Africa and beyond. Here is a profile of the airline.
A brief history of Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines was founded in 1945 and operated its first flight in 1946. Unlike many airlines on the continent, it has remained consistently profitable and has grown into a pan-African powerhouse, with stakes in several other African airlines. It joined Star Alliance in 2011, alongside partners such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines and United.
The fleet
Ethiopian operates one of the youngest and most modern fleets in Africa. Long-haul routes are flown by Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Boeing 777s and Airbus A350s, while Boeing 737s and De Havilland Dash 8 turboprops serve regional and domestic routes. It also runs a large cargo operation.
Network and service
Ethiopian flies to more than 130 international destinations, with one of the most extensive networks within Africa of any airline, as well as routes to Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the Americas. On board, passengers can expect friendly service, meals and a checked baggage allowance on most fares, with Cloud Nine business class on long-haul aircraft. Its loyalty programme is called ShebaMiles.
Safety
Ethiopian Airlines operates to international safety standards and runs its own aviation academy to train pilots, technicians and cabin crew.
Ethiopian Airlines and Israel
Ethiopian Airlines has a long history of flying between Tel Aviv and Addis Ababa, a route that is also important to Israel’s Ethiopian community. From Addis Ababa, passengers can connect to dozens of destinations across Africa. The airline has also offered perks on the route – see free baggage and hotel vouchers on Ethiopian Airlines. Check the current schedule when booking.
Tips for flying Ethiopian Airlines
- Check visa rules: make sure you know the entry requirements for your final destination, and for Ethiopia if you plan a stopover.
- Allow time to connect: Addis Ababa is a busy hub, so choose a comfortable connection time.
- Look at stopover offers: the airline sometimes offers hotel accommodation for long connections.
For general advice on transfers, see our tips on connecting flights and layovers. Ethiopian’s Star Alliance partners include Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa.
