Ethiopia

Market overview

Ethiopia's aviation market is built around one very strong airline and one hub, Addis Ababa. In the 2025–26 financial year, Ethiopian Airlines earned a record US$9.1 billion in revenue, up 20%. It carried 20.7 million passengers, up 10%, and 897,000 tonnes of cargo, up 16%. Costs rose faster than revenue, by 25%, and the airline did not disclose profit. It added eight aircraft during the year and is preparing two more orders. The first is for 16 freighters, a choice between the Boeing 777-8F and the Airbus A350F. The second is for 25 regional jets, with the A220, 737 MAX and E2 in contention. The group also runs its own MRO, aviation academy and cargo hub. Addis is also the base for a planned new mega-airport. For suppliers, Ethiopian is a demanding buyer with a large and varied fleet. There are openings in engines and components, cargo handling, simulators and training, and partner work for its MRO and academy.

Key facts

• Ethiopian Airlines revenue of US$9.1 billion in FY2025–26, up 20%; expenses rose 25% (July 2026).
• 20.7 million passengers in FY2025–26, up 10% (July 2026).
• 897,000 tonnes of cargo in FY2025–26, up 16% (July 2026).
• Eight aircraft added during FY2025–26 (July 2026).
• A planned order for 16 freighters, either 777-8F or A350F (eight firm, four options mentioned) (July 2026).

Key figures

Source: World Bank, World Development Indicators (CC BY 4.0).

Did you know

Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest airline group and first African customer for the 777-8F.