Ethiopian Airlines is looking to expand its 787-9 Dreamliner fleet. (Image: Boeing)
Ethiopian Airlines has signalled plans to fly to Australia in approximately two years.
The airline, Africa’s largest, is planning at least two Australian routes to the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa, though will seek to expand its fleet of wide-body jets first. The route would likely open up another connection from Australia to Europe, as well as into the African continent.
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“We need to secure at least two large aircraft to operate to the continent. It will take at least two years to receive aircraft from manufacturers,” said airline CEO Mesfin Tasew at a press briefing in Addis Ababa.
“We will most likely start flying to Australia in 2028, either by renting or purchasing, as a larger batch of aircraft will arrive after that year.”
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates more than 25 A350s, including A350-900 and A350-1000 variants, as well as 30 Dreamliners split between 787-8 and 787-9 variants; according to data from ch-aviation, it has a further 17 A350-900s and 20 787-9s on order, as well as eight of Boeing’s new 777-9s, which are yet to enter service with any operator.
In a social media post last year, Ethiopian’s regional manager for Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, Telila Deressa Gutema, noted that the carrier was looking to buy or lease more wide-body aircraft to fuel an Australian expansion.
“I have been driving forward our strategic goal of expanding our services to Australia. The groundwork has been laid, and the stage is set for this significant milestone,” he said on LinkedIn.
“At Ethiopian Airlines, we embody resilience and unwavering commitment. Just like our ethos, I ensure that every endeavor I undertake is seen through to completion. Australia is no exception.
“This route isn’t just about connecting two destinations; it signifies a bold statement. Ethiopian Airlines will bridge Africa and Australia seamlessly, proudly, and with the utmost dedication.”
The only direct services from Australia to the African mainland currently fly through Johannesburg, operated by Qantas and South African Airways, though connecting flights are also available through Gulf hubs such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha.
Additionally, Air Mauritius operates a service from Perth to Port Louis, codesharing with Virgin Australia.