Addis Ababa: Ethiopian Airlines, in celebration of its 78 years of success, is preparing to fly to Cairo where it made its first flight.
Ethiopian started its operation with five C-47 aircraft operating its debut fight to Cairo via Asmara on April 8, 1946.
Ever since, it has been growing in leaps and bounds and continued to introduce cutting-edge aviation technology and systems.
In its 78 years of joining the aviation industry, the airline has overcome many challenges and successfully become the largest air transport company in Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Lemma Yadecha stated that the airline is still a rapidly growing giant in the aviation industry.
As aviation technology leader, Ethiopian was a pioneer in ushering in new aviation technology into Africa, including the first jet airplane as well as the first B767, B777-200LR, B787 Dreamliner, and787-9 in the continent.
The airline also led the way in operating Africa’s first Airbus A350 XWB.
Currently, Ethiopian has a flee
t of over 147 modern aircraft with an average fleet age of less than seven years, and it has also more than 100 ultramodern aircraft on order.
The airline also bought the first ultra-modern Airbus (A350-900) aircraft in Africa and put them into operation.
Besides being a brand ambassador in the world and a symbol of Ethiopia’s pride, it is a source of pride and success for Africans.
In particular, CCO Lemma stated that Ethiopian Airlines is one of the pioneers in connecting Africa with Europe and the rest of the world.
The air transport service is constantly being updated and is growing rapidly by following a technology-supported system, he added.
The hard work of the employees, ability of strong strategic leadership, modern operations supported by technology and others have contributed for the success of the airline.
Lemma revealed that the airline is preparing to fly to Cairo, with a special event on Sunday night where senior management and staff of the airline will provide special hospitality service
s for customers.
Ethiopian Airlines became a member of Star Alliance on December 2011, the chief commercial officer said, adding that this allowed it to excel in its role in the world’s huge air transport network.
The airline was able to achieve 25 percent growth in the plan according to the 15-year goal set by Vision 2025, he stated.
According to him, the roadmap for Vision 2035 is already showing results.
Ethiopian Airlines currently has 136 international destinations with 147 aircraft. In the cargo service, 67 international cities are covered by 16 planes.
It is also accelerating regional integration by flying to more than 63 cities in Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines has set ambitious goals for its future, aiming to increase annual revenue to 25 billion USD and transport 67 million passengers annually by 2035
Source: Ethiopian News Agency