Ethiopian Airlines has officially announced the launch of four weekly flights to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, set to begin on July 10, 2025. This new route is part of the airline’s ongoing expansion strategy to enhance its international network and provide more travel options between Africa and Southeast Asia.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Ato Mesfin Tassew, emphasized the importance of this new route, noting that it marks a significant milestone in the airline’s growth in the Southeast Asian market. “The addition of Hanoi to our network will not only increase our reach in Southeast Asia but also strengthen our relationship with Vietnam and other countries in the region,” Tassew said. This expansion aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ goal of offering more diverse and accessible flight options for travelers across continents.

The new flights will directly connect Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital and Ethiopian Airlines’ hub, with Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant political and cultural heart. Passengers will now have a convenient travel option for both business and leisure trips to the region. The route will significantly improve connectivity between Africa and Southeast Asia, providing passengers with easier access to both regions.

CEO Ato Mesfin Tassew further explained that the new Hanoi flights would play a crucial role in enhancing bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Vietnam, particularly in terms of trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. “This new service will contribute to strengthening the economic ties between Ethiopia and Vietnam, supporting both business and tourism growth,” Tassew said.

The flights will also help improve trade opportunities between Ethiopia and Vietnam, especially as the two countries explore new avenues for cooperation in areas such as agriculture, technology, and education. Additionally, the route will encourage Vietnamese travelers to explore Ethiopia’s rich history, culture, and growing tourist attractions, further boosting Ethiopia’s tourism sector.

The direct flights to Hanoi come as part of Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy to expand its reach in Southeast Asia, which also includes existing routes to cities like Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. This continued growth in the region allows Ethiopian Airlines to further cement its position as a leading global airline, connecting Africa to key destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond.

The new Hanoi route is expected to increase Ethiopia’s visibility and presence in the rapidly developing Southeast Asian market, which has been experiencing significant growth in trade, tourism, and investment opportunities. By adding Hanoi to its network, Ethiopian Airlines is positioning itself to tap into these expanding opportunities and contribute to fostering greater international cooperation and connectivity.