By Jimoh Babatunde

Ethiopian Airlines has reaffirmed its ambition to rank among the world’s most competitive airlines as it celebrates 80 years of uninterrupted operations, rolling out an ambitious expansion roadmap under its Vision 2040 strategy.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tassew, disclosed that the airline plans to grow its destination network from 145 to 243, expand its fleet from over 150 aircraft to 350, and increase annual passenger traffic from 20 million to 60 million. He added that the airline has already placed orders for 117 aircraft scheduled for delivery over the next seven years, underscoring its commitment to fleet modernization and service expansion.

Founded on April 8, 1946, Ethiopian Airlines has grown into a global aviation powerhouse, operating across five continents with a modern fleet and a reputation for resilience and operational excellence. Tassew noted that sustaining its leadership position in Africa would require continuous investment and a deliberate push toward global competitiveness. “Even if Ethiopian Airlines is one of the leading airlines in Africa, we are working to be one of the internationally competitive airlines in the world,” he said.

As part of activities marking the milestone anniversary, the airline also reaffirmed its long-standing relationship with Nigeria, describing the country as a key partner in its growth journey.

Speaking during a commemorative event at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, the airline’s General Manager for Nigeria, Firiehiwot Mekonnen, said Nigeria has remained central to Ethiopian Airlines’ operations since it commenced scheduled flights into the country in 1960.

According to her, the enduring relationship reflects decades of mutual trust, shared growth, and sustained collaboration within Africa’s aviation ecosystem. She noted that Ethiopian Airlines began operations into Nigeria barely a month after independence, a milestone she described as symbolic of early African connectivity and integration.

Mekonnen said the airline has maintained uninterrupted service to Nigeria through periods of economic shifts and operational challenges, reinforcing its commitment to the market. “Nigeria has been an important part of our story since 1960. We have never stopped flying through every season, reflecting resilience, consistency and our dedication to serving the Nigerian market,” she said.

She further described Nigeria as “not just a destination but a valued partner rich in culture, energy and economic opportunity,” noting that the market has significantly contributed to passenger traffic growth and regional connectivity over the decades.

Beyond passenger services, she highlighted the airline’s transformation into a diversified aviation group, with investments spanning an aviation university for training professionals, maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities, airport development projects, and hospitality ventures such as the Skylight Hotel, alongside in-flight catering and ground handling services.