by ADANE BIKILA
ADDIS ABABA – ETHIOPIAN Airlines, Africa’s aviation powerhouse, is set to strengthen its leadership in domestic connectivity with the inauguration of three new airports in Negele Borena, Gore Metu, and Debre Markos by mid-April 2026.
The move further cements the carrier’s position not only as the largest airline on the African continent, but also as Africa’s leading air cargo operator, commanding the continent’s most expansive cargo network.
The national flag carrier will operate three weekly passenger flights to each of the new destinations, expanding its domestic network to 26 airports.
This milestone underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ unwavering commitment to connecting communities, stimulating regional economies, and advancing Ethiopia’s broader development agenda.
Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew described the expansion as a transformative moment for both the airline and the nation.
“The inauguration of these three new airports, alongside the launch of passenger services, marks a major milestone for Ethiopian Airlines and for Ethiopia,” he said.
“This expansion reflects our steadfast commitment to enhancing connectivity within the country and serves as a powerful driver of economic growth and regional development. Our mission is to build an inclusive and integrated air transport network that empowers communities, unlocks economic opportunities, and supports national development by making safe, reliable and efficient air travel accessible to all.”
The addition of Negele Borena, Gore Metu and Debre Markos will significantly enhance mobility for residents, businesses and investors, linking previously underserved regions to the capital and beyond.
Improved access is expected to stimulate trade, tourism, healthcare access and educational opportunities, reinforcing aviation’s critical role in national transformation.
Ethiopian Airlines has consistently demonstrated its dedication to domestic growth.
In 2025, it inaugurated Yabello Airport as its 23rd domestic destination, while simultaneously investing in infrastructure upgrades and service enhancements to modernize the passenger experience across the country.
With nearly eight decades of operational excellence, Ethiopian Airlines has evolved into a global aviation leader, operating to more than 160 passenger and cargo destinations across five continents.
Its unmatched African network, combined with a modern fleet and industry-leading cargo capabilities, continues to bridge Africa with the rest of the world.
As the airline expands its domestic footprint once again, Ethiopian Airlines reinforces its role as a catalyst for inclusive growth—connecting people, markets and opportunities across Ethiopia and beyond.
– CAJ News
