Ethiopian Airlines Expands Russian Operations with New Regional Routes

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline, has announced plans to expand its services in Russia by introducing more flights beyond Moscow. The news was shared by Michale Endale, the airline’s area manager, during the Tatarstan-Ethiopia roundtable at the BRICS Summit. Currently, the airline operates four weekly flights from Moscow, and this frequency will increase soon.

“We want to increase the number of flights in the near future and are working towards making this a reality,” Endale said, emphasizing the airline’s role in cargo transport. “We are the main carrier and Africa’s largest transport hub. We are always happy to assist with any logistical challenges.”

Oleg Korobchenko, deputy prime minister and minister of industry and trade for the Republic of Tatarstan, revealed that Kazan Airport is considered a second Russian hub for Ethiopian Airlines. Kazan recently expanded its apron and plans to build a new terminal, making it an attractive option for the airline’s regional expansion.

Ethiopian Airlines is consistently ranked as Africa’s largest airline by both revenue and profit, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Since the resumption of air traffic between Russia and Ethiopia in August 2022, the airline has seen significant growth in Russian passengers. Elena Konstantinova, the airline’s senior sales and advertising manager, reported that over 13,000 Russian tourists flew with Ethiopian Airlines between August 2022 and May 2023, with around 1,000 traveling directly to Ethiopia.

Beyond African destinations, Ethiopian Airlines is also a popular choice for Russian travelers heading to South America, Asia, and other international locations. Addis Ababa is a key transit hub for flights to Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, and Thailand.

The announcement of the expansion aligns with Ethiopia’s increasing participation in BRICS, a global coalition established in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa became a member in 2010, and in 2023, Ethiopia joined as one of four new members. BRICS seeks to enhance economic collaboration and political leverage among its emerging economies.