Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — In a groundbreaking development for Ethiopia’s aviation sector, the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority has announced the authorization of private charter carriers to enter the scheduled domestic passenger and cargo market.
The move marks a significant shift in the country’s aviation landscape, traditionally dominated by Ethiopian Airlines.
In an official statement released on social media, the authority disclosed that several Ethiopian air transport operators have already been granted licenses to commence regular passenger and cargo flights, in addition to their existing charter services.
Currently, Ethiopian Airlines (ET, Addis Ababa International) stands as the sole scheduled carrier in Ethiopia.
However, the new licenses pave the way for competition from eight active passenger charter operators: Abyssinia Flight Services, Aquarius Aviation, East African Aviation, Midroc Aviation, National Airways (Ethiopia), Trans Nation Airways, Walya Airways, and Zemen Flying Service.
The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority emphasized that this decision is part of a broader transformation initiative underway for the past two years.
The authority has been updating procedures and introducing new regulations to encourage private sector participation in domestic aviation.
The primary objectives of this initiative include bolstering the aviation sector’s economic contribution, enhancing investment incentives, ensuring the provision of safe services, improving regional connectivity, and promoting tourism.
Additionally, the authority noted the commencement of a significant infrastructure project involving private investors to construct over 21 airstrips and helipads across the country, particularly in currently inaccessible areas.
This strategic move is expected to stimulate the domestic aviation market, offering more options and improved services for passengers, while fostering economic growth and development across Ethiopia’s diverse regions.
© All East Africa
