ETHIOPIA – Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest airline group, has unveiled its Jinka airport project, in the South Ethiopia region to enhance the passenger experience and boost tourist flow to the region.
The new terminal and support facility buildings, which have a built-up area of 3,500m2, were unveiled at the inauguration ceremony attended by Mr. Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Mr. Getachew Mengste, CEO of Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, and other dignitaries from the South Ethiopia Region.
“We are truly delighted to witness the completion of the brand new Jinka Airport Terminal Building project that has been under construction for the last few years,” said Mr. Tasew.
“As a national flag carrier, Ethiopian is playing its part in the country’s aviation transformation and Jinka is our latest contribution to Ethiopia’s modern aviation facility.
“The new Jinka airport will further offer a comfortable travel experience to/from the city thereby boosting trade and tourism in the region and beyond. Committed to enhancing customer experience, we will continue to invest in renovation and upgrading of domestic airports.”
After investing over €8 million (US$8.6m) in construction, the Jinka Airport Terminal has undergone significant upgrades, now boasting modern passenger areas such as departure lounges, VIP lounges, and other amenities aimed at improving the overall customer experience.
These enhancements not only elevate Ethiopians customer service for travelers to and from the city but also provide a more enjoyable journey for tourists exploring the vibrant people, culture, and natural beauty of southern Ethiopia.
Furthermore, Ethiopian Airlines, operating at its central hub, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, offers seamless transit and stopover services. This setup presents an opportunity for layover passengers to immerse themselves in the allure of Addis Ababa, known as the diplomatic capital of Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines turns 78
Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines Group has marked its 78th anniversary, highlighting a legacy of resilience and innovation since 1946.
Ethiopian started its operation with five C-47 aircraft operating its debut fight to Cairo via Asmara on April 8, 1946.
Ever since, it has been growing in leaps and bounds and continued to introduce cutting-edge aviation technology and systems.
Group CEO Mr. Tassew and Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Lemma Yadecha accompanied the crew on a flight to Cairo, marking the airline’s inaugural international service.
As aviation technology leader, Ethiopian was a pioneer in ushering in new aviation technology into Africa, including the first jet airplane as well as the first B767, B777-200LR, B787 Dreamliner, and 787-9 in the continent.
The airline also led the way in operating Africa’s first Airbus A350 XWB.
Currently, Ethiopian has a fleet of over 147 modern aircraft with an average fleet age of less than seven years, and it also has more than 100 ultramodern aircraft on order.
The airline also bought the first ultra-modern Airbus (A350-900) aircraft in Africa and put them into operation.
Ethiopian Airlines currently has 136 international destinations with 147 aircraft. In the cargo service, 67 international cities are covered by 16 planes.
It is also accelerating regional integration by flying to more than 63 cities in Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines has set ambitious goals for its future, aiming to increase annual revenue to US$25 billion and transport 67 million passengers annually by 2035.
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