Africa’s largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, this week marked 80 years of operations, offering a case study in institutional resilience and long-term strategy in an industry often defined by volatility. From those modest beginnings, the carrier has grown into Africa’s largest aviation group, serving more than 150 destinations across five continents. Over the decades, Ethiopian Airlines has navigated political upheaval, economic shocks and conflict, both domestically and across the continent. That resilience was tested again during the Covid-19 pandemic, when global aviation ground to a near halt. While many carriers suspended operations or required state bailouts, Ethiopian Airlines pivoted rapidly, converting passenger aircraft into cargo planes and expanding its freight operations.

Source: Ethiopian News April 13, 2026 12:37 UTC