Ethiopian Airlines Earns $5.6 Billion in Revenue in Nine Months, Sets New Records in Passenger Growth and Expansion











Addis Ababa – May 2025

Ethiopian Airlines Group has reported a remarkable $5.6 billion in revenue over the past nine months, reflecting an 8% increase compared to the same period last year. The airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, shared the performance update in an interview with the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), highlighting the Group’s continued momentum and expansion as it charts a course toward its long-term strategic goals.

According to Mr. Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines transported 14.5 million passengers during the reporting period, marking a 13% year-on-year increase. This growth comes amid sustained efforts to widen the airline’s global footprint, enhance operational capacity, and respond to the surging demand for international and domestic travel.

Strategic Expansion Under Vision 2035

As part of its broader Vision 2035 growth plan, Ethiopian Airlines has aggressively pursued network and fleet expansion. Within just the first nine months of the Ethiopian fiscal year 2017 (EC), the carrier inaugurated four new international destinations, bolstering its already vast global route network.

Fleet modernization and expansion were also central to this growth. The airline acquired 10 new aircraft, integrating them into active service. Notably, it became the first airline in Africa to introduce the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 to its fleet—a milestone that underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to operating one of the youngest and most modern fleets on the continent.

Infrastructure Development to Match Growth

The surge in passenger traffic at Bole International Airport has prompted major investments in aviation infrastructure. Mr. Tasew confirmed that preparations are underway to construct additional international airports to alleviate congestion and meet future demand. The move reflects the airline’s strategy to position Addis Ababa as a premier aviation hub for Africa and beyond.

Sustainable Growth and Global Recognition

Ethiopian Airlines’ achievements are not just confined to numbers. The Group’s growth is underpinned by key foundational investments in training, maintenance, cargo, and logistics. These sectors have not only contributed to revenue diversification but have also solidified the airline’s reputation as a fully integrated aviation group.

The carrier’s success story continues to stand out in Africa’s aviation sector, especially during a time when many global airlines are still recovering from the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ethiopian Airlines’ ability to adapt, innovate, and invest—while maintaining profitability—has earned it international accolades and has made it a model for other national carriers on the continent.



With its Vision 2035 strategy in full swing, Ethiopian Airlines plans to continue expanding its route network, investing in sustainable aviation technology, and strengthening its position as Africa’s leading airline. The Group aims to significantly increase its fleet size, passenger volume, and cargo capacity while focusing on digital transformation and customer satisfaction.

As Africa’s most profitable and fastest-growing airline, Ethiopian Airlines is not just charting the skies—it is redefining them.