Ethiopian Airlines Expands African Network, Offers New Benefits for Israeli Travelers

Ethiopian Airlines is strengthening its Addis Ababa hub with new routes across Africa, aiming to enhance connectivity for travelers, particularly from Israel. The airline is reintroducing a daily flight to Durban, South Africa, starting December 11, after a nine-year hiatus. This route, operated by a Boeing 737 MAX, will provide direct access from the KwaZulu-Natal region to Addis Ababa, bypassing Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Further network expansion includes adding Nampula, Mozambique, with three weekly flights starting October 27, making it the airline's third destination in Mozambique. In West Africa, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, will see four weekly flights beginning December 1, targeting the populous nation and its significant oil and gas industry.

The airline is also extending its route to Mauritius until the end of January 2027, indicating a commitment to this tourist destination. These expansions coincide with efforts to attract Israeli passengers, including a 10% discount on base fares for travelers aged 12-23 to select destinations, with one free flight change. Additionally, a 10% discount on base fares is available for flights connecting Tel Aviv and Addis Ababa to certain destinations, with bookings valid until November 30 for travel until January 2027.

Ethiopian Airlines has also enhanced its baggage policy, now including checked baggage with all new fare types since September. Economy class includes two 23kg bags and a 7kg carry-on, while business class offers two 32kg bags and two 7kg carry-ons. This move aims to reduce the overall cost for families and long-haul travelers.

The airline is experiencing significant growth, reporting $9.1 billion in revenue for fiscal year 2025/26, carrying 20.7 million passengers (an 8% increase), and transporting 897,000 tons of cargo (a 16% increase), serving 150 international destinations.