Ethiopian Airlines Launches Second Daily Flight to Lagos, Strengthens Regional Air Connectivity

Ethiopian Airlines begins second daily Lagos-Addis flight, boosting Nigeria’s regional air connectivity and tourism.

Officials hail the move as strategic growth, promising better access and opportunities for Nigerian travelers.

Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its operations in Nigeria with the introduction of a second daily flight between Lagos and Addis Ababa, as 147 passengers arrived aboard the Boeing 737 Max at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Monday evening. The aircraft touched down at 7:20 p.m. and was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute.

This new addition brings the airline’s total weekly Lagos flights to 14, reaffirming its status as the most active foreign airline in Nigeria.

Speaking at the launch, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr Ibrahim Kana, commended Ethiopian Airlines for its consistent service and strategic expansion. He noted that the Federal Government promptly granted the request for additional flight frequency.

“When the airline approached us in the ministry requesting an increase in frequency to Lagos, we did not hesitate,” Dr Kana said. “We did not hesitate because Ethiopian Airlines is our airline. Ethiopian Airlines is Nigeria’s airline.”

He also highlighted aviation’s crucial role in enhancing regional integration, boosting intra-African trade, and promoting tourism. Kana reiterated the government’s commitment to making Lagos a leading aviation hub in West Africa and encouraged other international airlines to increase their presence in Nigeria through the country’s multiple entry points.

Also speaking at the event, Ms Firiehiwot Mekonnen, the Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines in Nigeria, expressed gratitude for the support the airline has received from Nigerian authorities. She said the additional flight was driven by growing passenger demand and increased traffic volumes.

“In 2023, over 248,000 passengers travelled between Nigeria and Ethiopia, with Lagos accounting for the largest share,” she said.

According to her, the second daily service will provide passengers with greater scheduling flexibility and enhanced connectivity to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive global route network.

Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group and Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO), praised the move as a timely and strategic expansion that would significantly boost regional air travel and offer more market opportunities for Nigerian travelers.