Ethiopian Airlines has announced a major expansion of its regional network, unveiling a series of strategic initiatives designed to strengthen connectivity across Africa and boost access to remote destinations.
The carrier confirmed plans to launch new intra-African routes, increase flight frequencies on key regional corridors, and deploy its modern fleet of narrow- and wide-body aircraft to underserved destinations. A central component of the strategy will be the introduction of enhanced regional feeder services, including the recently ordered Twin Otter 300-G aircraft capable of operating in rugged environments as well as additional Dash 8 and turboprop aircraft to support shorter-range travel.
The rollout includes:
New regional routes to secondary cities in East and West Africa, enabling direct connections without routing through Addis Ababa.
Increased frequencies on core regional routes to Nairobi, Lagos, Kinshasa, and Johannesburg, improving business and leisure travel options.
Expansion of regional feeder network, utilising turboprop and STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft to serve remote and secondary airports in countries such as South Sudan, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Enhanced cargo capabilities, with dedicated freighter flights and belly-hold capacity expansion targeting intra-Africa trade and e-commerce markets.
Group CEO Mesfin Tasew emphasized that regional air travel is critical to Africa’s economic integration. “By improving regional connectivity, we support trade, tourism, and socio-economic development across the continent,” he said. “Our investments are aimed at bringing more Africans closer to each other.”
The airline plans to introduce digital solutions across its regional operations, including mobile check-in, real-time baggage tracking, and contactless boarding via biometric identification. Training programmes for regional staff are also underway to align customer service, maintenance standards, and operational safety with international best practice.
Industry experts say Ethiopian Airlines’ push reflects growing demand for reliable intra-African air travel. As airlines across the continent seek to decentralize and diversify, the national carrier’s enhanced regional strategy positions it as a leader in bridging connectivity gaps.
The airline aims to roll out the first phase of its enhanced regional services later this year, with further expansion planned over the next 18 months. Travelers and commercial partners can expect improved flight options, better connectivity, and stronger contributions to African mobility and economic cohesion.
