By Victor Shalton
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest state airline, and Boeing, a global aviation giant, have embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration in the aviation industry. This strategic partnership will establish a joint venture to manufacture aircraft parts, showcasing the convergence of expertise between the renowned aircraft manufacturer and the prominent carrier.
The ambitious venture, which kicks off with an initial investment of $15 million, was recently unveiled by the state investment authority. Ethiopian Airlines will spearhead the production of aerospace components, encompassing critical elements like aircraft thermal-acoustic insulation mats and electrical wiring harnesses. These components are integral to ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of aircraft operations.
Beyond its aviation implications, this partnership holds great potential for the local economy. The Ethiopian Investment Commission has projected the creation of over 300 job opportunities, contributing significantly to employment growth and skills development in the region.
Ethiopian Airlines has already signed the agreement, joined by the participation of the local state-owned Industrial Parks Development Corporation. This collaborative effort underscores a concerted endeavor to fortify aerospace manufacturing capabilities within Ethiopia.
While the exact commencement date for production remains undisclosed by the commission, Boeing is yet to issue an official statement regarding this exciting venture.
This joint effort arrives at a critical juncture for the aviation industry, grappling with challenges such as supply chain disruptions. In light of these issues, other African carriers like Kenya Airways have highlighted the shortage of aircraft parts resulting from geopolitical conflicts that have impacted the availability of essential materials, including Russian titanium.
Notably, Ethiopian Airlines, boasting an impressive fleet of 140 planes, reported a remarkable 20% increase in profits to $6.1 billion in its previous fiscal year. This growth underscores the airline’s substantial presence in the aviation market and its commitment to achieving new heights.
Ethiopian Continues Restoring Services
Simultaneously, as a prominent member of the Star Alliance, Ethiopian Airlines continues to advance global connectivity and elevate passenger experiences. The airline’s plan to resume its Madrid service on December 9, 2023 serves as a testament to its resilience. After a temporary suspension of Madrid flights in March 2020, Ethiopian Airlines is poised to make a triumphant return to the Spanish market. Operating a route that connects Addis Ababa, Rome Fiumicino, and Madrid, the airline will employ Airbus A350-900XWB aircraft to ensure a blend of comfort and cutting-edge technology. Travelers can anticipate a frequency of four weekly flights, enhancing travel options and flexibility.
Furthermore, Ethiopian Airlines is set to reinforce its Accra service, marking its second expansion in 2023 for the Accra – Addis Ababa route. By elevating weekly flights from eleven to an impressive fourteen, the airline empowers passengers with enhanced connectivity. This enhancement, effective during the upcoming IATA Winter Season, affords travelers a broader selection of flight times, encompassing afternoon, early morning, and evening departures.
As Ethiopian Airlines charts its course, it will deploy a diverse fleet to uphold its commitment to exceptional service. This includes the operation of 14 services through a combination of Airbus A350 and the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, showcasing the airline’s dedication to ensuring top-tier travel experiences for its passengers.
Victor Shalton’s love for aviation can be traced to when he was 11-years-old. As a seasoned aviation writer, he takes pride in providing the best aviation coverage around the globe and is passionate about advancing his skills in the aviation space. In addition, he loves travelling, writing, arts and while his speaking engagements have taken him around the world, he is proud to call Nairobi home.