Ethiopian Airlines has celebrated its 80th anniversary highlighting its history from a single flight destination to a network of 144 destinations and the partnership with Nigeria which has spanned over 65 years.
Celebrating the historic milestone, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew announced the beginning of the airline’s 80th year service anniversary celebrations at a press conference held at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel. The press conference is the first official event of the series of events that the airline will hold to commemorate the historic milestone.
Ethiopian Airlines began “operation with five Douglas C-47 aircraft back in April 1946 with a scheduled service to Cairo via Asmara. From operating the Douglas C-47, Convair 240, and DC-6B in its early days, Ethiopian has established itself as a technology leader, pioneering in the continent with ultra-modern aircraft operation.”
Mr. Tasew said: “We are honored to reach the 80 years mark serving our continent and the rest of the world. Keeping our Pan-African identity, we have bridged gaps, linked nations, and connected economies for eight decades. Our achievements are built by hard work, commitment, and partnerships. This is not a milestone just for the management and staff, it is also a remarkable moment for our stakeholders, partners, and our esteemed customers.”
The airline remarked that “over its eight decades of operation, Ethiopian has established itself as a technology leader, introducing cutting-edge aircraft to the African continent. Ethiopian is currently the leading airline in Africa in number of aircraft, destinations served, revenue,
In Nigeria, Mrs. Firihiewot Mekonnen, General Manager, Ethiopian Airlines Nigeria said: “Today, Ethiopian Airlines is more than just an airline it is a proud symbol of resilience, ambition, and success. As we like to say, we are 80 years young because our passion, our drive, and our commitment to excellence remain as strong and vibrant as they were on the day of our very first flight. While we celebrate how far we have come, we are even more inspired by how far we will go.”
Mrs. Mekonnen stated that “Lagos, Nigeria has been an important part of our story since 1960, and we are especially delighted and truly grateful to celebrate our 80th anniversary here in this vibrant and beautiful city, surrounded by all of you. Ethiopian Airlines has been proudly flying to Nigeria since 1960 marking 65 years of continuous service having begun operations just a month after Nigeria’s independence.”
“Since then, through every season through growth and challenge, through change and progress we have never stopped flying. That enduring connection is a testament to the strength of our partnership and the deep bond we share with the people of Nigeria. Nigeria is not just a destination in our network it is a valued partner in our journey, a place rich in culture, energy, and opportunity, and a community that has embraced us for decades.” Mrs. Mekonnen added.