Monday, June 9th, 2025
Ethiopian Airlines proudly marks its 50 years of continuous service to Kigali, a milestone that underscores the airline's lasting role in shaping the future of aviation in Africa. Since launching the Addis Ababa-Kigali route in 1975, the airline has evolved into a critical connector between nations, promoting strategic partnerships, boosting regional integration and expanding access to more than 145 destinations around the world. In addition to celebrating decades of reliable passenger and freight services, the Golden Jubilee emphasizes the commitment of Ethiopian airlines to strengthen diplomatic, economic and cultural ties across Africa and through a strong global network.
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's premier aviation powerhouse, proudly commemorates its incredible milestone. This is the 50th anniversary of the first flight to Kigali and Rwanda. Since the launch of the Addis Ababa-Kigali service in 1975, the airline has become an important bridge not only in Ethiopia and Rwanda, but also in African countries and the wider world. The last 50 years of milestone celebrates the legacy of consistent service, strong partnerships and remarkable advancements in both regional air travel and global connectivity.
Referring to this opportunity, the group CEO said: “We are excited to reach such a milestone. Over the course of over 50 years to Kigali, we have expanded both our passenger and freight operations, increasing frequency for the benefit of our customers.
Strategic Air Links for Half Century
In 1975, Ethiopian Airlines began serving Kigali when commercial aviation was just beginning to rebuild the African continent. This route represented more than just a flight route. It has become a strategic lifeline that will make Ethiopian and Rwandan people closer and catalyze diplomatic engagement, cultural exchange and economic development. Over the years, this route has become increasingly important, reflecting the evolution of the airline itself into a global brand synonymous with safety, efficiency and Africa's excellence.
Today, Ethiopian airlines operate a 21-week passenger flight, along with three cargo-only services to Kigali. These flights provide important travel and trade corridors connecting Rwanda to more than 145 destinations in over 80 countries on five continents through the airline's strategic hub at Bore International Airport in Addis Ababa. This robust schedule provides direct access to the world for travelers from Kigali, supporting both business and leisure travel, freight services facilitate the movement of goods and assisting Rwandan exporters and importers alike.
Promotes Pan-African unity and integration
Ethiopian Airlines, the continent's widest airline, serves as a key force in promoting unity and integration across Africa. Our commitment to increasing connectivity within Africa is reflected in the broad coverage of African networks. Addis Ababa – Kigali route is one of many arteries that increase its frequency and reliability and promote continental cooperation and mobility.
This connectivity isn't just for flights. It's about opportunities. Ethiopian Airlines has become a growth enabler by boosting tourism, promoting cross-border investment and supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) goals. In countries like Rwanda, which have seen impressive economic transformations over the past 20 years, reliable air connectivity is a key component of development, enabling a cross-border flow of talent, products and ideas.
Expanding global access from Kigali to the world
Ethiopian Airlines goes far beyond regional services. Its extensive international network spans major global hubs in Europe, Asia, North, South America, and the Middle East. Seamless connections via Addis Ababa allow passengers departing from Kigali to reach cities such as London, Dubai, New York, Beijing, Paris and Sao Paulo.
This global reach positions Ethiopian airlines not only as flagship carriers in Africa but also as strategic players in global aviation. For Rwandan businesses and citizens, this means wider access to markets, universities, healthcare facilities and tourist destinations around the world. At the same time, international visitors can arrive in Rwanda more easily and promote tourism in a country known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and rich biodiversity.
It enables cargo growth and economic development
Beyond passenger transport, Ethiopian airlines have made significant investments in air freight and recognize their important role in driving economic growth. Ethiopian Airlines has three dedicated freighter services in Kigali, opening up new opportunities for Rwandan exporters to access the global market.
Whether it's fresh produce, coffee, textiles or industrial items, air freight ensures fast and efficient delivery. These freight services are essential to boost Rwanda's reputation as a time-sensitive trade and a reliable source of high-quality products. Addis Ababa's airline's cutting-edge cargo and logistics infrastructure also ensures that perishable and valuable goods are carefully processed and maintain quality from origin to destination.
Regional Partnerships and Development Commitment
The journey to becoming Ethiopian Airlines' global aviation leader is characterized by strong partnerships and commitment to Africa's development. Our work in Rwanda reflects this spirit of collaboration. Through Kigali Services, airlines not only link passengers, but also invest in human resource development, tourism promotion and bilateral cooperation.
Ethiopian Airlines' operations in Kigali are seamlessly in line with Rwanda's vision to establish itself as a regional aviation centre. In pursuit of this goal, Ethiopian airlines and Rwanda's national airlines are actively working together to identify joint opportunities such as codeshare partnerships and joint training initiatives. Their combined efforts reflect a mutual commitment to increasing the air connection and competitiveness across the African continent.
Looking ahead
Ethiopian Airlines' 50-year journey of uninterrupted services to Kigali stands as both a pride and launchpad for future growth. The carrier focuses on upgrading fleets, adopting cutting-edge technology, improving service quality and responding to changing expectations of today's world travelers. The expansion plan aims to cover more African cities and deepen its reach in existing markets, taking a step forward in line with Africa's economic dynamism and demographic growth.
Over the next 50 years, we promise even greater cooperation between Ethiopia, Rwanda and Ethiopian Airlines. Airlines reaffirm their role as Africa's aviation leader and their strength for good in regional integration by defending connectivity, inclusiveness and operational excellence.
Conclusion
Ethiopian Airlines declares Kigali 50 years of service and celebrates its pivotal role in advancing African aviation through strategic partnerships and global connections.
Ethiopian Airlines' 50-year heritage in Kigali is more than a flight record. It is a testament to Africa's resilience, progress and unity. From a single route in 1975 to a modern network spread across the globe, Ethiopian Airlines not only linked Ethiopia with Rwanda, but also raised the continent by building bridges in the sky. This Golden Jubilee is a reminder and a bold signal for the future that Africa-led aviation is proud to achieve.
