Ethiopian Airlines Surpasses 13.9 mn Passengers in Nine Months, Bolstering Role as Africa’s Aviation Powerhouse

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Ethiopian Airlines has carried over 13.9 million passengers during the first nine months of the current Ethiopian fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Transport and Logistics. As reported by Fana Broadcasting Corporate, the milestone reinforces the airline’s continued growth as one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic carriers.

Out of the total, more than 11 million were international passengers, while approximately 2.9 million travelled on domestic routes. This reporting period spans from July to March, based on Ethiopia’s fiscal calendar, which runs from July to June.

The airline’s strong performance follows a robust 2023/2024 fiscal year in which it earned USD 7.02 billion in revenue, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. Over the full year ending July 7, 2024, Ethiopian Airlines transported 17.1 million passengers (including 13.4 million internationally) and handled over 754,000 tonnes of cargo, reflecting rising demand across both passenger and freight services.

Operating under its long-term Vision 2035 strategy, Ethiopian Airlines aims to become one of the world’s top aviation groups. This roadmap includes expansion in passenger and cargo services as well as initiatives in aviation training, airport management, and ground operations. The strategy supports Ethiopia’s broader goal to establish itself as a major logistics and aviation hub in Africa.

In a landmark development, the airline signed a partnership with the African Development Bank in March 2025 to help fund a new international mega-airport. Estimated at USD 7.8 billion, the project is expected to boost annual passenger capacity from 17 million to over 60 million by 2040, solidifying Ethiopia’s position as a central gateway for regional and global travel.

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With continued investments in infrastructure and talent, Ethiopian Airlines is strengthening its role in both the national economy and the broader African aviation landscape. Known for its safety, operational excellence, and sustained growth, the carrier remains a key driver of Africa’s aviation resurgence.