Africa’s leading carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has celebrated its 80th anniversary, highlighting its growth from a single route in 1946 to a global aviation powerhouse operating over 140 aircraft across 144 destinations worldwide, with 65 years of continuous service in Nigeria.
The milestone was marked at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where key industry stakeholders gathered to honour the airline’s legacy and contribution to African aviation.
Speaking at the event, the airline’s General Manager for Nigeria, Firiehiwot Mekonnen, described the anniversary as a celebration of resilience, vision, and sustained excellence.
She traced the airline’s origins to April 8, 1946, when its first flight departed Addis Ababa for Cairo aboard a Douglas C-47 aircraft, marking the beginning of modern aviation in Africa.
“From a humble beginning with just five aircraft, we have grown into a global aviation group. Today, we are 80 years young, driven by innovation, passion, and commitment to excellence,” she said.
Mekonnen emphasised Nigeria’s importance to the airline’s history, noting that Ethiopian Airlines began operations in the country in 1960, just a month after independence, and has maintained a strong presence ever since.
Also speaking, Airport Manager of Murtala Muhammed Airport and Regional General Manager for Southwest Nigeria, Olatokunbo Arewa, commended the airline’s longevity and partnership with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
“It is a remarkable achievement for any airline to sustain operations for 80 years. Ethiopian Airlines has been a consistent and dependable partner to FAAN and to this airport,” he said.
President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies, Yinka Folami, highlighted the airline’s support for the Nigerian travel trade, particularly during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the trapped funds crisis.
“Ethiopian Airlines stood with the Nigerian market, maintaining ticket sales in naira and ensuring stability during difficult times. That commitment reflects true excellence,” Folami said.
In her remarks, Chief Mrs. Mobisola Shobayo of Super International Travels Limited praised the airline’s role in enhancing connectivity within Nigeria.
She cited key milestones including additional flights to Abuja, operations to Kaduna during rail disruptions, and increased frequencies out of Lagos.
“Ethiopian Airlines has consistently bridged gaps in connectivity and supported the Nigerian travel ecosystem. We are proud to be associated with such a reliable African airline,” she said.
The event brought together aviation stakeholders, travel trade professionals, and partners to celebrate what many described as a benchmark achievement in African aviation.
As Ethiopian Airlines looks ahead, officials reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strengthening partnerships across key markets, including Nigeria.
