Ethiopian Airlines prepares its return to the Tigray region after 2 years of absence
Ethiopian Airlines (ETH) suspended flights to the Tigray region two years ago due to the armed conflict between the Ethiopian federal state and the rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). Peace now seems to be returning as the two sides recently signed a peace agreement.
Ethiopian Airlines suspended flights to the region in November 2020, after the conflict began. The airline had temporarily resumed services after the state took control of Mekele, the capital of Tigray. But it suspended them again after the TPLF took over the city.
Ethiopian Airlines is expected to resume flights to the Tigray region soon. Interviewed by Ethiopian News Agency on 23 November 2022, the airline's chief executive officer, Mesfin Tassew, revealed that it is currently preparing for this.
According to him, Mekele and Shire airports are ready to receive flights again, while Aksum airport, damaged during the armed conflict between the Ethiopian federal state and the Tigray People's Liberation Front rebellion, needs rehabilitation. "We will send our men to the region and repair the airport," Mr Tassew promised. "In addition to the three airports, we are also working to resume service to other airports, such as Lalibela," he added.
Ethiopian Airlines' plan to return to the far northern region of Ethiopia comes after the state and the TPLF signed a peace agreement on November 2 in Pretoria, South Africa, ending the conflict. "There will be a demand for passenger and cargo services as part of the delivery of humanitarian aid. Various foreign organisations are expected to provide humanitarian aid, and we are ready to provide these services," says the CEO.
