Africa’s largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has announced plans to significantly expand its domestic operations with the addition of three new airports scheduled to commence service by mid April 2026. The move will increase the airline’s domestic network to 26 destinations, reinforcing its position as a central pillar in Ethiopia’s transportation infrastructure and economic development strategy.
The new destinations include Negele Borena, Gore, and Debre Markos. Ethiopian Airlines intends to operate three weekly flights to each of these cities, improving accessibility to regions that have historically relied on lengthy and sometimes challenging road travel. The airline has indicated that these routes are part of a broader domestic expansion plan aimed at deepening connectivity across Ethiopia.
According to Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew, the decision to broaden domestic coverage aligns with the airline’s long term vision of supporting inclusive growth and national integration. He noted that strengthening internal air links plays a crucial role in accelerating economic activity, enabling easier movement of people and goods, and supporting the government’s regional development agenda.
The expansion is expected to deliver tangible benefits to local economies. By connecting these emerging urban centers to the national air network, Ethiopian Airlines is facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Improved air connectivity reduces travel time, enhances business efficiency, and encourages private sector participation in areas that may previously have been considered remote.
This latest announcement follows earlier efforts by the airline to widen its domestic footprint. In August 2025, the carrier inaugurated flights to Yabello, further demonstrating its sustained commitment to expanding air transport infrastructure within the country. The addition of Negele Borena, Gore, and Debre Markos builds upon this momentum and signals the airline’s determination to ensure that air travel is accessible beyond major metropolitan centers.
Ethiopian Airlines has long been recognized for its expansive international network, connecting Africa to destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. However, the renewed focus on domestic operations underscores the airline’s strategic understanding that internal connectivity is equally vital for national progress. A strong domestic network not only feeds international routes but also strengthens economic cohesion within the country.
The airline’s expansion initiative comes at a time of solid operational performance. In recent financial briefings, management highlighted steady revenue growth and increased passenger volumes across both domestic and international routes. Enhancements in fleet capacity and route optimization have contributed to improved operational efficiency. Nevertheless, the airline has acknowledged certain constraints, particularly in the availability of smaller aircraft typically deployed on domestic routes. Efforts are underway to address these challenges through fleet acquisitions and leasing arrangements to ensure that expansion plans remain on track.
Industry observers note that investments in regional airports often stimulate broader infrastructure development. Airport openings typically lead to improvements in surrounding roads, hospitality facilities, and commercial services. As such, the introduction of scheduled flights to the three new destinations is likely to generate multiplier effects that extend beyond aviation.
Furthermore, enhanced domestic connectivity supports Ethiopia’s broader economic transformation agenda. By linking agricultural hubs, commercial centers, and administrative capitals more effectively, air transport can help integrate supply chains and reduce logistical bottlenecks. This integration is particularly important in a country with diverse geographic terrain, where land transport can be time consuming and weather dependent.
The expansion also aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ long term strategic objectives under its growth roadmap, which emphasizes network diversification, fleet modernization, and service excellence. By balancing international expansion with domestic strengthening, the airline continues to reinforce its reputation as a comprehensive carrier serving both global and local markets.
As preparations advance for the launch of services to Negele Borena, Gore, and Debre Markos, stakeholders anticipate improved connectivity, enhanced economic participation, and greater mobility for residents. Ethiopian Airlines’ domestic growth initiative not only expands its route map but also reinforces its role as a catalyst for national integration and sustainable development.
With these new additions, Ethiopian Airlines is positioning itself not merely as an international aviation leader, but as a foundational partner in Ethiopia’s ongoing development journey.