Ethiopian Airlines on April 8, 2026, celebrated its 80th anniversary, reflecting on eight decades of growth from a single flight between Addis Ababa and Cairo to a global network of 144 destinations and a fleet of more than 140 aircraft.
Mrs. Firihiewot Mekonnen, addressing guests in Lagos, hailed the milestone as a symbol of resilience, ambition, and innovation. She noted that Ethiopian Airlines has expanded beyond passenger services to encompass cargo operations, ground services, MRO, airports, in-flight catering, aviation education, and hospitality.
“Ethiopian Airlines is more than just an airline—it is a proud symbol of resilience, ambition, and success,” Mekonnen said. “While we celebrate how far we have come, we are even more inspired by how far we will go.”
The General Manager highlighted Ethiopia Airlines’ enduring connection with Nigeria, marking 65 years of continuous service since operations began in Lagos just a month after Nigeria’s independence in 1960. Mekonnen emphasized Nigeria’s importance as a valued partner in the airline’s journey and praised the loyalty and trust of Nigerian passengers.
She expressed appreciation to the airline’s staff, partners, and passengers, stating that the 80-year achievement is a shared success made possible by their dedication and support. The celebration underscored Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering exceptional experiences in the years ahead.
