Ethiopian Airlines has revealed its intention to enhance its flight operations from Russia, with a particular focus on expanding services beyond Moscow.
According to Michale Endale, Ethiopian Airlines’ area manager, the carrier is planning to introduce additional routes from various regional airports in Russia in the near future.
“We currently operate four flights per week from Moscow,” Endale remarked. “Our goal is to increase the frequency of these flights soon, and we are actively working to achieve this.”
He further highlighted the airline’s significant role in cargo transportation, stating, “We are the primary carrier and the largest transport hub in Africa. We are always ready to assist with any logistical challenges.”
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has ranked Ethiopian Airlines as Africa’s largest air carrier by both revenue and profit.
The company has reportedly seen a significant uptick in Russian travelers since air traffic resumed with Russia in August 2022. According to senior sales and advertising manager for Ethiopian Airlines, over 13,000 Russian tourists flew to Africa via the airline between August 2022 and May 2023, with around 1,000 traveling directly to Ethiopia.
The airline’s popularity is not limited to African destinations. Russian travelers frequently fly through Addis Ababa to other international locations, including Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, Tanzania, the Seychelles, and various destinations in Asia, such as Bangkok, Jakarta, and Manila.