In Memory of Captain Mohamed Ahmed: The Leader Who Took Ethiopian Airlines to New Heights











The Ethiopian aviation industry has lost one of its most iconic pioneers with the passing of Captain Mohamed Ahmed (1932–2024). As a former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Captain Mohamed dedicated over a decade of his career to steering the airline through some of the most challenging and transformative periods in its history. His contributions not only elevated Ethiopian Airlines to new heights but also left an indelible mark on the global aviation industry.

A Life of Dedication and Excellence

Born in Harar, Ethiopia, in 1932, Mohamed Ahmed grew up in a family that instilled in him a deep sense of purpose and ambition. After a brief stint in the Ethiopian Air Force, he pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Saint Louis University. He later completed an executive program at Stanford University, equipping him with the technical expertise and leadership acumen to excel in the field of aviation.

The Rise of a Leader

Captain Mohamed’s journey with Ethiopian Airlines began in the 1960s as the chief aeronautical engineer. His technical knowledge and visionary thinking played a foundational role in shaping the airline’s early development. By 1980, he ascended to the role of CEO, a position he held during one of the most tumultuous eras in Ethiopia’s history.

At the time, the airline faced operational challenges exacerbated by the Ethiopian Civil War and political interference from the Derg regime. Captain Mohamed’s leadership was nothing short of transformative. His steadfast commitment to preserving the airline’s independence from political influence ensured its survival and growth. Amid Cold War pressures, he boldly resisted government proposals to replace American aircraft with Soviet models, a move that would have compromised the airline’s global competitiveness.

Under his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines entered a period of stability and prosperity by the late 1980s. His decisive actions, including workforce optimizations and strategic partnerships, restored the airline’s reputation for excellence and innovation.

Global Recognition and Legacy

Captain Mohamed’s achievements extended beyond Ethiopian Airlines. In 1992, he became the Secretary General of the African Airlines Association, where he championed the interests of African aviation on the global stage. American writer Paul B. Henze, who met Captain Mohamed in 1990, described him as one of the top entrepreneurs in the developing world, a leader deeply committed to his homeland and its progress.

A Farewell to a Trailblazer

Today, the aviation community and the nation mourn the loss of a leader whose vision and determination helped build a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s modern identity. Captain Mohamed Ahmed was laid to rest at the Kolfe Muslim Cemetery in Addis Ababa. His funeral was attended by Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew, senior management, employees, former colleagues, family, and friends—a testament to the profound impact he had on so many lives.

A Lasting Inspiration

Captain Mohamed Ahmed’s life was a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His legacy will continue to inspire not only those within Ethiopian Airlines but also generations of Africans striving to make their mark on the global stage. Ethiopian Airlines stands today as a beacon of African aviation, a living tribute to his leadership and vision.

Captain Mohamed Ahmed’s contributions remind us that great leaders not only guide institutions through challenges but also leave behind legacies that endure. His work has etched his name into the annals of Ethiopian history and the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.











4 COMMENTS

TG







November 27, 2024 At 1:48 am













My favorite story about Capt. Mohamed is one told by my father who was the head of the post office at the time Capt. Mohamed was heading Ethiopian Airlines. Captain Mohammed would say to my father, “I make millions in profit, not thousands like you” and my father would reply “you know I sell stamps to make profit, you fly jets”.

My favorite story about Capt. Mohamed is one told by my father who was the head of the post office at the time Capt. Mohamed was heading Ethiopian Airlines. Captain Mohammed would say to my father, “I make millions in profit, not thousands like you” and my father would reply “you know I sell stamps to make profit, you fly jets”.

Solomon







November 27, 2024 At 2:51 am













It is a big loss for Ethiopia. A big condolences for his families and Ethiopian Airlines and Ethiopia, too.

It is a big loss for Ethiopia. A big condolences for his families and Ethiopian Airlines and Ethiopia, too.

Ittu Aba Farda







November 27, 2024 At 5:03 am













I heard this gentleman was the one who fought off Mengistu from meddling into the business of the iconic airline. One ally on the side of this patriot was that Mengistu was too dumb to understand the intricacies of the airline business.

May he rest in eternal peace!!!



















A. Kalifa







November 28, 2024 At 11:32 am













True. He is my uncle, my mom’s older brother. First day as the CEO of E A, he removed all Mengistus and communist leaders pictures out of the airport. Mengistu might be dumb but he was smart enough to let him do it his way or at the least negotiated with him. He also immediately fired about 400 employees that were there just because they were soldiers.

My sister once asked him to get her a job there. He said sure, go talk to Mulu at the office. So my sister went and talked to Mulu. Mulu welcomed my sister with big hug and told her that she heard great things about her and was expecting her. She then handed her a form and said, fill this up and go behind the last person in line. Good luck, I know you’ll pass all the tests.

That’s how he made Ethiopian Airlines one of the best. He hired the most qualified people. No favoritism. He was a sta d up guy, a man of principle, a model of integrity. RiP

I heard this gentleman was the one who fought off Mengistu from meddling into the business of the iconic airline. One ally on the side of this patriot was that Mengistu was too dumb to understand the intricacies of the airline business.

May he rest in eternal peace!!!

A. Kalifa







November 28, 2024 At 11:32 am













True. He is my uncle, my mom’s older brother. First day as the CEO of E A, he removed all Mengistus and communist leaders pictures out of the airport. Mengistu might be dumb but he was smart enough to let him do it his way or at the least negotiated with him. He also immediately fired about 400 employees that were there just because they were soldiers.

My sister once asked him to get her a job there. He said sure, go talk to Mulu at the office. So my sister went and talked to Mulu. Mulu welcomed my sister with big hug and told her that she heard great things about her and was expecting her. She then handed her a form and said, fill this up and go behind the last person in line. Good luck, I know you’ll pass all the tests.

That’s how he made Ethiopian Airlines one of the best. He hired the most qualified people. No favoritism. He was a sta d up guy, a man of principle, a model of integrity. RiP

True. He is my uncle, my mom’s older brother. First day as the CEO of E A, he removed all Mengistus and communist leaders pictures out of the airport. Mengistu might be dumb but he was smart enough to let him do it his way or at the least negotiated with him. He also immediately fired about 400 employees that were there just because they were soldiers.

My sister once asked him to get her a job there. He said sure, go talk to Mulu at the office. So my sister went and talked to Mulu. Mulu welcomed my sister with big hug and told her that she heard great things about her and was expecting her. She then handed her a form and said, fill this up and go behind the last person in line. Good luck, I know you’ll pass all the tests.

That’s how he made Ethiopian Airlines one of the best. He hired the most qualified people. No favoritism. He was a sta d up guy, a man of principle, a model of integrity. RiP

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