Addis Ababa–Atlanta route returns

by ADANE BIKILA
ADDIS ABABA – ETHIOPIAN Airlines, Africa’s largest network carrier, has announced the resumption of its direct passenger service between Addis Ababa and Atlanta, effective 21 May 2026, following a temporary suspension of the route in February 2026.

The reinstated service will restore a vital air link between Africa and the United States, catering to both business and leisure travellers.

The route will once again connect Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), offering enhanced connectivity and convenient access to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive global network.

Commenting on the development, Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said: “Atlanta is one of the most dynamic markets in the United States, and we are delighted to reinstate this route. It responds to growing demand from business travellers, the African diaspora, and tourists seeking seamless access to destinations across Africa.”

As a major economic and cultural hub, Atlanta is home to one of the largest African diaspora communities in the United States.

The resumed service will provide convenient travel options for passengers connecting to cities across the southeastern United States, as well as onward destinations throughout Africa via Addis Ababa.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates flights to multiple destinations across the United States and continues to expand its transatlantic network in line with its long-term growth strategy.

The return of the Atlanta route further strengthens the airline’s role as a key bridge between Africa and the rest of the world.

Tickets are available through Ethiopian Airlines’ official website, mobile application, global ticket offices, customer interaction centres, and authorised travel agents.

Ethiopian Airlines Group is widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading aviation success stories, having evolved over nearly eight decades into a globally recognised airline group.

The carrier operates flights to more than 160 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents, connecting Africa with the world.

With a strong focus on passenger comfort and environmental sustainability, Ethiopian Airlines operates a modern fleet that includes Boeing 737, 777 and 787 aircraft, as well as Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 models, and De Havilland Q400 turboprops.

A member of the Star Alliance, the airline has received numerous accolades, including Skytrax’s Best Airline in Africa award for eight consecutive years, as well as APEX recognition for Best Overall Airline in Africa and honours for leadership in connecting the continent through transport.

Looking ahead, Ethiopian Airlines aims to further strengthen its global position through its strategic “Vision 2035” plan, with the goal of becoming one of the world’s top 20 most competitive aviation groups.

As part of its Pan-African growth strategy, the airline is expanding its multi-hub network through partnerships in Lomé (Togo) with ASKY, Lilongwe (Malawi) with Malawi Airlines, Lusaka (Zambia) with Zambia Airways, and Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of the Congo) with Air Congo.

– CAJ News