Ethiopian Airlines Celebrates Women’s Day with All-Women Flights to Six Destinations
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and fastest-growing airline, marked the 2025 International Women’s Day on March 8 with a vibrant celebration at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa. The event, attended by esteemed government officials, distinguished guests, and senior airline executives, highlighted the airline’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in aviation.
A key highlight of the celebration was the operation of all-women-managed flights to six destinations across five continents. These flights, departing from Addis Ababa, were entirely handled by women, covering roles such as catering, maintenance, check-in, lounge services, and flight operations. The destinations included Bahir Dar, Athens, Delhi, Dubai, Windhoek, and Sao Paulo, showcasing Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to breaking barriers and promoting women’s participation in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Speaking at the event, Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew emphasized the airline’s ongoing efforts to foster diversity and inclusion. “We are thrilled to celebrate March 8, as we do every year at Ethiopian Airlines. As an employer of choice, we are deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the aviation industry and the broader community. In today’s modern aviation landscape, women play an indispensable role across all sectors, significantly contributing to the industry’s dynamic growth. Today, we honor the remarkable achievements of women in aviation and beyond, while also inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams without limitations,” he stated [[1]](https://www.freightweek.org/index.php/en/latest-news/8989-ethiopian-airlines-celebrates-international-women-s-day).
Women currently make up approximately 40% of Ethiopian Airlines’ workforce, holding positions across various divisions, including cockpit crew, cabin crew, aircraft technicians, commercial roles, and managerial positions. This significant representation underscores the airline’s dedication to empowering women and fostering their professional growth within the aviation sector.
The all-women-operated flights have become a hallmark of Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to gender inclusivity. By showcasing the capabilities of women in aviation, the airline aligns itself with the global call for gender equality and the recognition of female leaders in traditionally male-dominated industries. These initiatives not only celebrate the achievements of women but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in aviation and other fields where gender disparities persist.
Ethiopian Airlines’ celebration of International Women’s Day reflects its broader vision of promoting diversity and inclusion as key drivers of success. The airline’s efforts to elevate women’s roles in aviation serve as a model for other organizations across Africa and beyond, demonstrating the value of empowering women to contribute to the growth and innovation of the industry.
For African travel agents, Ethiopian Airlines’ initiatives present an opportunity to highlight the airline’s progressive approach to gender equality and its commitment to excellence. By supporting and promoting such milestones, travel professionals can align themselves with a brand that prioritizes inclusivity and innovation, further enhancing their appeal to clients seeking meaningful travel experiences.
As Ethiopian Airlines continues to lead the way in gender inclusivity, its all-women-operated flights and vibrant Women’s Day celebrations stand as a testament to the airline’s dedication to creating a more equitable and dynamic aviation industry. These efforts not only celebrate the achievements of women but also pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in aviation.
