Ethiopian Airlines Expands Tel Aviv-Addis Ababa Flights Amid Regional Tensions
Despite heightened security concerns and some airlines canceling flights to Israel, Ethiopian Airlines announced last weekend it will increase its Tel Aviv-Addis Ababa route frequency in August. Represented in Israel by Tal Aviation Group, the airline will add five weekly flights from Sunday to Thursday, raising the total weekly flights from 21 to 26 in each direction.
Following El Al's cancellation of flights to South Africa in 2024, Ethiopian Airlines remains the sole carrier offering direct flights connecting Israel to a major African aviation hub, facilitating onward travel to numerous destinations across the continent. Israeli tourism and business ties with Africa, alongside Ethiopian Airlines' service improvements, have driven this growth. Aviation expert Yehuda Zafrani noted the airline's transformation over the past decade, highlighting its rise to 43rd place globally by daily flights in July 2024, operating over 170 aircraft including Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
Ethiopian Airlines' revenues have more than doubled in five years, from $3.7 billion in 2019/20 to $7.6 billion projected for 2024/25, with operating profits nearly tripling. This success stems from the Ethiopian government's strategic decision to elevate the airline as a global player, hiring European managers and expanding its international reach to over 160 destinations. The airline is also spearheading the construction of a new $12.5 billion airport in Bishoftu, expected to be Africa's largest by 2030, designed to serve 110 million passengers annually.
The airline's central location in Africa and its commitment to maintaining flights to Israel during ongoing conflicts have reinforced its reputation for reliability. Israeli demand for flights to Ethiopia and African destinations has surged, with searches for Ethiopia up 22% and Zanzibar up 132% year-over-year. Tal Aviation's CEO Guy Tahler confirmed the increase from 18 weekly flights in June to 26 in August, citing Addis Ababa's airport as a highly efficient hub.
Ticket prices for direct flights average around $775, with connecting flights via Etihad slightly cheaper. Popular onward destinations from Ethiopia include Southeast Asia, safari locations in Africa, and parts of the Americas. Ethiopian Airlines serves a diverse clientele including tourists, business travelers, backpackers, and the Ethiopian community in Israel. Tahler emphasized the airline's loyalty and the growing Israeli demand for more travel options amid regional instability.
