Ethiopian Airlines has marked its 80th anniversary in Lagos with a strong reaffirmation of its long-standing commitment to Nigeria, where it has maintained uninterrupted operations for 65 years since first launching services in 1960, just one month after Nigeria’s independence.
Speaking at the commemorative event, the General Manager, Ethiopian Airlines Nigeria, Mrs. Firihiewot Mekonnen, said the milestone represents not only eight decades of aviation excellence but also a celebration of enduring partnerships, particularly with Nigeria, which she described as a vital and strategic part of the airline’s global story.
“It is a great honour and sincere pleasure to welcome you all as we gather to celebrate a truly historic milestone—the 80th anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines”, she said.
“We deeply appreciate your presence here today as we mark this remarkable journey of resilience, growth, and excellence”.
She traced the airline’s origins to April 8, 1946, when Ethiopian Airlines operated its first flight from Addis Ababa to Cairo using a Douglas C-47 aircraft. That pioneering journey, she noted, carried not just passengers but a vision for a new era of African aviation.
From those humble beginnings with five C-47 aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines has grown into one of the world’s most respected aviation groups. Today, the airline operates a modern fleet of more than 140 aircraft and connects Africa to 144 global destinations, evolving from a single route into an extensive international network.
Mekonnen said the airline’s growth story reflects courage, determination, and foresight, adding that Ethiopian Airlines has become more than a carrier but a fully integrated aviation ecosystem. The Group now includes passenger and cargo services, ground handling, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), Ethiopian Airports, an aviation university, in-flight catering services, and the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel.
She described the transformation as a symbol of resilience, ambition, and African excellence, noting that the airline proudly considers itself “80 years young”, with an unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and world-class service delivery.
Highlighting its operations in Nigeria, Mekonnen said Ethiopian Airlines began services to the country in 1960, shortly after independence, and has maintained continuous operations ever since.
“Lagos has remained a vital part of our network and our story”, she said. “Since 1960, through changing times, growth, and challenges, we have never stopped flying to Nigeria. This enduring relationship reflects not only operational continuity but also a deep bond built on trust, shared values, and mutual respect”.
She emphasised that Nigeria is more than a destination on the airline’s network but a valued partner and a country full of energy, culture, and opportunity.
According to her, the loyalty and support of Nigerian passengers and stakeholders over the decades have been central to the airline’s success in the region.
Mekonnen expressed gratitude to passengers, partners, and the media for their continued support, adding that Ethiopian Airlines’ achievements over 80 years are the result of collective effort and shared trust.
She also reaffirmed the airline’s forward-looking vision, saying the industry’s rapid evolution requires continued innovation and commitment to excellence.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead with renewed energy and determination”, she said.
“Ethiopian Airlines remains firmly committed to innovation, sustainability, and delivering world-class travel experiences to our valued customers”.
She concluded by thanking stakeholders for their trust and partnership, and reaffirmed the airline’s ambition for continued growth.
“Here’s to 80 years of excellence and many more years of shared success ahead”, she said.