Sharjah Airport Welcomes Ethiopian Airlines' First Flight To Strengthen Africa Connectivity

Sharjah Airport has marked a new milestone in its expansion into Africa by welcoming Ethiopian Airlines' first direct flight on 2nd June 2025. This development highlights Sharjah's growing importance as a hub connecting the Middle East with Africa. The inaugural flight was celebrated with a reception attended by senior officials from both parties, underscoring the significance of this new route.

Ethiopian Airlines now offers four weekly flights between Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and Sharjah Airport. Flights depart Addis Ababa on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with return flights leaving Sharjah on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This schedule enhances connectivity between the two regions.

Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA), highlighted that this partnership aligns with the airport's strategy to expand its network and connect Sharjah with emerging markets. He noted that this move meets the increasing demand for travel and supports the airport’s goal to handle 25 million passengers annually by 2027.

Al Midfa stated, "This new route with Ethiopian Airlines represents a qualitative step in reinforcing the airport’s role as a vital air bridge that supports trade and investment flows between the UAE and African nations. We remain committed to delivering the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and service diversity, through the adoption of smart technologies and advanced digital systems. This enhances operational performance and sustainability while ensuring a seamless, safe, and integrated travel experience—further strengthening Sharjah Airport’s position as a distinguished regional hub."

Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about the new service: "We are truly delighted to connect our passengers to an additional getaway in the UAE with our new flights to Sharjah. We have been connecting the UAE and Africa for nearly five decades now and the new service will help boost the investment, tourism, diplomatic and socioeconomic bonds between the two regions."

The collaboration reflects Sharjah Airport Authority's commitment to attracting global airlines by offering comprehensive services tailored to aviation partners' needs. These services adhere to international best practices in aviation technology and systems.

Ethiopian Airlines is recognised as one of Africa's leading carriers. It operates flights to 142 international destinations for both passengers and cargo. The airline is known for its operational efficiency and adherence to global safety standards.

With inputs from WAM