Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines stands as a titan of African aviation, serving as a vital bridge that connects the continent's diverse cultures to the rest of the world. As the flag carrier of Ethiopia, it has grown from a modest operation in the mid-20th century to become Africa's largest and most successful airline group. With its bustling hub in Addis Ababa, the airline offers travelers a seamless gateway to explore ancient landscapes, thriving metropolises, and exotic destinations with the warmth of traditional Ethiopian hospitality. "The New Spirit of Africa" is more than just a slogan; it reflects a deep commitment to service excellence and global connectivity.

History and Growth
Founded in December 1945, Ethiopian Airlines commenced operations the following year, quickly establishing itself as a pioneer in African aviation. Over the decades, it has maintained a trajectory of steady growth and modernization. Today, it is a Star Alliance member, a testament to its adherence to international standards and global reach. The airline has successfully positioned itself as a Pan-African carrier, facilitating trade and tourism across the continent and beyond.

Modern Fleet and Comfort
The airline prides itself on operating one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the world, with an average aircraft age of just a few years. Travelers can expect a comfortable journey aboard state-of-the-art aircraft, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A350, and Boeing 777. This commitment to modern technology ensures not only passenger comfort but also operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. Onboard, passengers enjoy "Cloud Nine" business class or a comfortable economy service, featuring Ethiopian cuisine and entertainment.

Key Markets and Connectivity
Ethiopian Airlines dominates the African skies but also maintains a robust international network covering Europe, North and South America, Asia, and the Middle East. For travelers based in the Gulf region, the airline provides excellent connectivity. Frequent direct flights connect the main hub in Addis Ababa with key cities in the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. This makes it a convenient choice for tourists looking to explore Ethiopia or transit to other African destinations.

Awards and Recognition
The airline's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. It has received numerous accolades, including being voted "Best Airline in Africa" by Skytrax multiple times. These awards highlight its superior service, operational reliability, and leadership in the African aviation industry. Safety remains a top priority, with the airline investing heavily in training (through its own Aviation Academy) and maintenance facilities to ensure a safe and reliable travel experience.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily connect with Ethiopian Airlines through their dedicated local offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or via their 24/7 toll-free number. Whether you need assistance with flight bookings, ticket changes, or baggage inquiries, the airline provides comprehensive support to ensure a smooth journey to Africa and beyond.

Official Website
For the most direct access to flight schedules, online check-in, and booking management, visit the official website: www.ethiopianairlines.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.ethiopianairlines.com
• Toll-Free Customer Service (UAE): 8000 320 372 (24/7 Support)
• Abu Dhabi Booking Office: +971 2 627 1400 / +971 2 621 8000
• Email: dxbres@ethiopianairlines.com (Dubai) / ethiopianair@salemtravels.ae (Abu Dhabi)
• Mobile App: Ethiopian Airlines Mobile App (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media
Stay updated with the latest news and offers through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Ethiopian Airlines
• X (Twitter): @flyethiopian
• Instagram: fly.ethiopian

Local Offices in the UAE
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit one of the local city offices during business hours.

• Dubai City Office:
  Ground Floor, Al Kazim Building (Lootah Building), Airport Road, Al Garhoud, near GGICO Metro Station.
  Business Hours: Monday – Saturday, 09:00 – 17:45
• Abu Dhabi City Office (GSA - Salem Travel Agency):
  Ground Floor, Dhafir Tower, Al Najada Street, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi.
  Business Hours: Monday – Thursday & Saturday, 09:00 – 20:00; Friday & Sunday, 09:00 – 18:00

Emergency & 24/7 Support
For urgent matters outside of regular office hours, passengers in the UAE can rely on the Toll-Free number 8000 320 372, which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Preparing for your journey with Ethiopian Airlines involves understanding their baggage policies, which are designed to accommodate the needs of modern travelers. Whether you are flying from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah to the bustling hub of Addis Ababa, the airline generally offers generous allowances. However, specific limits can vary based on your ticket class, route, and ShebaMiles status, so it is always wise to check your specific booking details before packing.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance
For those looking to travel light or keep essentials close, Ethiopian Airlines provides a straightforward cabin baggage policy. Passengers flying in Economy Class are typically allowed one piece of carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of 7 kg. Travelers in "Cloud Nine" (Business Class) enjoy an enhanced allowance of two pieces, each weighing up to 7 kg. In addition to the standard carry-on, passengers may also bring a small personal item, such as a laptop bag, handbag, or camera case, provided it fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Limits
The checked baggage allowance is determined by either the "Piece Concept" or the "Weight Concept," depending on your destination.

• Piece Concept: Common for flights to and from the Americas and increasingly other long-haul routes. Economy Class passengers are usually entitled to 2 pieces weighing up to 23 kg each. Business Class passengers may check in 2 pieces up to 32 kg each or sometimes 3 pieces depending on the route.
• Weight Concept: Often applied to regional flights within Africa and routes to the Middle East. Economy passengers typically enjoy a total weight allowance (e.g., 30 kg or 40 kg), which can be spread across multiple bags as long as the total does not exceed the limit.

Excess Baggage Fees
If your luggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. These charges vary significantly based on the route and the extent of the extra weight or number of pieces. Ethiopian Airlines often offers a discount for travelers who purchase extra baggage allowance online in advance compared to paying at the airport counters. It is highly recommended to weigh your bags at home and purchase additional allowance beforehand if you anticipate going over the limit.

Special Items and Sports Equipment
Travelers planning to bring bulky items like golf clubs, surfboards, or musical instruments should notify the airline in advance. Ethiopian Airlines generally accepts sports equipment as part of the free baggage allowance if it falls within the standard weight and size limits. However, larger equipment may incur a special handling fee. Musical instruments can often be carried on board if they fit in the overhead bin or purchased as a "seat baggage" item if they are fragile and large.

Restricted and Prohibited Items
To ensure safety, strict rules apply to what can be packed.

• Prohibited in all baggage: Explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, and strong corrosives.
• Restricted to carry-on: Lithium batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes must be in your cabin bag and cannot be checked in. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on must be in containers of 100ml or less, placed in a transparent resealable plastic bag.
• Restricted to checked baggage: Sharp objects, tools, and sporting goods that could be used as weapons must be packed in your checked luggage.

Tips for Efficient Packing
To make your journey smoother, place all valuables, medications, and travel documents in your carry-on. Label your checked bags clearly with your name, phone number, and email address both inside and outside. Using distinctive luggage tags or a colorful strap can help you spot your bags quickly on the carousel in Addis Ababa or your final destination. Finally, ensure your bags are sturdy and locked with TSA-approved locks for added security.

Ethiopian Airlines recognizes that pets are an integral part of the family and is dedicated to ensuring their safety and comfort during air travel. Whether you are flying from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah to the main hub in Addis Ababa, the airline provides specific services to accommodate cats and dogs. Passengers are advised to declare their intent to travel with a pet at the time of booking to ensure availability.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

• Carrier dimensions: The container must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20 cm to fit under the seat.
• Maximum pet weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed pet types: Only dogs and cats are generally permitted in the cabin.
• Breed restrictions: Pets must not have an offensive odor or show aggressive behavior.
• Limit per passenger: Strict quotas apply per flight; Economy Class usually allows a limited number of pets, while Business Class allows fewer.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

• Container requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved fiber glass or rigid plastic crate with proper ventilation and a secure lock.
• Weight and size limits: This option is for pets exceeding 8 kg; the crate must be spacious enough for the animal to stand, turn, and lie down naturally.
• Temperature restrictions: Pets may be refused if the forecast temperature at departure, transit, or arrival points is too hot or too cold.
• Required documentation: Liability waiver forms must be signed during check-in.

As cargo (for large animals)

• When this option is required: Mandatory for very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries with strict entry rules (e.g., UK, South Africa).
• Special requirements: Transport is handled by Ethiopian Cargo; an Air Waybill is required.
• Booking procedure: Arrangements must be made separately through the airline's cargo division well in advance.

Required Documentation

• Veterinary passport: An up-to-date identification document for the animal.
• Health certificate: A standard veterinary certificate issued typically within 10 days of travel stating the pet is fit to fly.
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid vaccinations, most importantly a current Rabies certificate.
• International certificates: Import permits or sanitary certificates as required by the destination country's customs.

Service Costs

• In-cabin fee: Generally charged as a fixed fee or excess baggage rate per sector.
• Cargo hold fee: Calculated based on the total weight of the pet and crate, often charged at excess baggage rates.
• Note: Prices vary significantly depending on the route and zone; always confirm the exact amount during booking.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Ensure the crate is leak-proof, escape-proof, and clearly labeled with your contact details.
• Feeding before flight: Provide a light meal 4–6 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness; keep the pet hydrated.
• Stress reduction: Place a familiar blanket or absorbent pad inside the carrier; sedation is not recommended unless prescribed by a vet.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Prohibited animals: Dangerous wild animals or species protected under international trade laws are not accepted as baggage.
• Exceptions: Service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities are typically carried free of charge in the cabin, subject to specific conditions.

Important: We strongly recommend contacting Ethiopian Airlines directly or visiting their local office at least 48 hours before your flight, as regulations, fees, and aircraft compatibility are subject to change.

Loyalty Program: ShebaMiles

Ethiopian Airlines rewards its loyal passengers through its frequent flyer program, ShebaMiles. Designed to enhance the travel experience, this program allows members to accumulate miles on every flight and enjoy a wide range of exclusive privileges. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure to the hub in Addis Ababa or beyond, ShebaMiles ensures that every journey counts towards future rewards.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four membership levels, with benefits increasing as you move up the tiers based on your travel frequency and miles earned.

• Blue (Entry Level): Immediate membership upon enrollment with the ability to earn miles on all eligible flights.
• Silver: Includes priority standby on the waitlist and an additional baggage allowance.
• Gold: Grants access to airport lounges, priority boarding, and a higher tier bonus on miles earned.
• Platinum: The highest tier offering guaranteed seat availability, dedicated support, and maximum baggage allowances.

Earning Miles

Members can build their mileage balance through various activities, making it easy to reach the next tier status.

• Flights: Earn miles on all scheduled Ethiopian Airlines flights and Star Alliance member carriers.
• Distance and Class: The number of miles earned depends on the distance flown and the class of service booked.
• Hotel Partners: Accumulate points by staying at partner hotel chains and resorts worldwide.
• Car Rentals: Earn miles when renting vehicles from global partners like Hertz or Avis.
• Everyday Spending: Use co-branded credit cards or shop with non-airline partners to boost your balance.

Redeeming Miles

ShebaMiles offers flexible options for using your hard-earned miles, ranging from travel perks to lifestyle rewards.

• Award Flights: Book free tickets to over 130 destinations across the airline's global network.
• Flight Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Cloud Nine (Business Class).
• Excess Baggage: Pay for extra luggage using your miles instead of cash at the airport.
• Partner Awards: Redeem miles for flights on any Star Alliance member airline.

Alliance Membership

As a member of the prestigious Star Alliance, Ethiopian Airlines connects ShebaMiles members to a vast global network.

• Global Reach: Earn and redeem miles on over 25 member airlines, including United, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines.
• Seamless Travel: Gold and Platinum members enjoy consistent recognition and benefits across the entire alliance network.
• Lounge Access: Star Alliance Gold status grants access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide.

How to Join

Joining ShebaMiles is free, simple, and open to anyone aged two years and above. Travelers can enroll instantly via the official Ethiopian Airlines website or the mobile app to start earning miles on their very next trip.

Flying with Ethiopian Airlines offers a unique blend of modern aviation standards and traditional African hospitality. Whether you are embarking on a journey from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah to the vibrant hub of Addis Ababa, the airline ensures a comfortable and culturally immersive experience. Passengers can expect warm service, distinct culinary delights, and a young fleet equipped with the latest amenities.

Cloud Nine: The Premium Experience
Ethiopian Airlines calls its Business Class cabin "Cloud Nine," reflecting the elevated level of comfort and service provided. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional First and Business classes, Cloud Nine offers passengers a premium travel experience. On wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, travelers can relax in spacious seats that often convert into fully lie-flat beds, ensuring a restful journey. Passengers in this class enjoy dedicated check-in counters, access to exclusive airport lounges, and priority boarding. The attentive cabin crew provides a personalized service, ensuring that every need is met with a smile.

Economy Class: Comfort and Value
The Economy Class cabin is designed to provide a relaxing environment for both long-haul and regional flights. The seats are configured to offer generous legroom and recline, with adjustable headrests for added comfort. On modern aircraft, the cabin features larger windows and improved air quality, reducing jet lag and enhancing the overall passenger experience. Bright and cheerful decor, combined with the hospitable nature of the crew, makes the journey pleasant from takeoff to landing.

In-Flight Dining: A Taste of Ethiopia
One of the highlights of flying with Ethiopian Airlines is the culinary journey. The airline takes pride in offering passengers a taste of its heritage.

• National Dish: Passengers often have the opportunity to try traditional Ethiopian cuisine, including "Injera" (a sourdough flatbread) served with spicy stews (Wats), providing an authentic cultural experience at 30,000 feet.
• International Selections: For those preferring familiar tastes, a variety of international dishes, including hot meals and fresh salads, are available.
• Beverages: The meal service is complemented by a selection of fine wines, beers, and soft drinks. Notably, passengers can enjoy freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, renowned worldwide for its rich flavor and aroma.

Entertainment and Connectivity
To keep passengers entertained throughout the flight, Ethiopian Airlines offers a comprehensive in-flight entertainment system.

• Personal Screens: Most international flights feature personal seat-back monitors in both Cloud Nine and Economy Class.
• Content Variety: The system offers a wide array of blockbuster movies, classic films, television shows, and documentaries from around the world.
• Audio: Music lovers can explore diverse audio channels, ranging from the latest international hits to traditional African tunes.

Special Services and Assistance
Ethiopian Airlines is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers.

• Families with Children: The airline offers special amenities for young travelers, including bassinets for infants (subject to booking and availability) and kid-friendly meals. The entertainment system also features dedicated channels for children.
• Unaccompanied Minors: A supervised travel service is available for children traveling alone, ensuring they are cared for from the departure gate to their guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Disabilities: Wheelchair assistance and special handling can be arranged for passengers with reduced mobility. It is recommended to request these services at the time of booking to ensure a smooth airport experience.

Destinations

Ethiopian Airlines operates a comprehensive network centering on its main hub in Addis Ababa, connecting passengers from the United Arab Emirates to destinations across Africa and the globe. With frequent flights from multiple airports in the UAE, the airline offers flexible scheduling options for both business and leisure travelers seeking seamless connectivity.

Booking a flight with Ethiopian Airlines is the first step toward an exciting journey, especially for travelers departing from the UAE. To ensure a smooth experience from reservation to boarding, it is helpful to know how to navigate the booking process efficiently. Planning ahead is key to securing the best value for your money.

To find the lowest fares for flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, it is generally advisable to book at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Airfares tend to increase as the departure date draws nearer. Additionally, maintaining flexibility with your travel dates can often help you uncover cheaper options, as midweek flights are sometimes more affordable than weekend departures.

Travelers looking for deals should consider joining ShebaMiles, the airline's frequent flyer program, or subscribing to the official newsletter to receive updates on promotions. When booking, checking for connections through the carrier's main hub in Addis Ababa can also provide competitive rates for onward travel to various destinations across Africa and beyond.

Online check-in is a highly recommended feature that helps you save time at the airport. For Ethiopian Airlines, this service typically opens 72 hours before the scheduled departure and closes 2 hours prior. Utilizing this option allows you to confirm your presence, select your seat, and obtain a digital boarding pass, letting you skip the long queues at the airport counters.

Regarding seat selection, choosing your spot early is beneficial. While seat selection is often available during online check-in, booking a specific seat in advance ensures you get your preference, whether it is a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for easier mobility. If you require more comfort, look for options offering extra legroom during the booking process.

For a seamless travel management experience, download the Ethiopian Airlines mobile app. It puts control of your journey in the palm of your hand, allowing you to book flights, check flight status in real-time, and store your boarding pass. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This provides essential protection against unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, lost baggage, or medical emergencies, ensuring peace of mind throughout your trip.

History and Development

Founding and Early Years
The story of Ethiopian Airlines began on December 21, 1945, when it was established by Emperor Haile Selassie I with the vision of modernizing Ethiopia and connecting it to the world. Operations commenced on April 8, 1946, with a weekly service between Addis Ababa and Cairo using five Douglas C-47 Skytrains. In its formative years, the airline operated under a management assistance agreement with Trans World Airlines (TWA), a partnership that was instrumental in laying a strong foundation for technical expertise and operational standards.

Entering the Jet Age
Ethiopian Airlines quickly distinguished itself as a pioneer in African aviation. In 1962, it became the first carrier on the continent to order and operate jet aircraft, introducing the Boeing 720B. This bold move significantly reduced travel times and enhanced comfort, marking the beginning of a long-standing relationship with Boeing. By the early 1970s, the airline had transitioned to fully Ethiopian management, proving its capability to operate independently while maintaining international safety and service standards.

Resilience and Expansion
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the airline demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining profitability and steady growth despite various global and regional challenges. It continued to expand its network across Africa, Europe, and Asia, effectively becoming a Pan-African carrier. A major milestone was reached in 2011 when Ethiopian Airlines joined the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline network. This accession underscored its status as a world-class carrier and opened up seamless connectivity for its passengers to over 1,000 destinations globally.

Vision 2025 and Strategic Growth
At the turn of the millennium, the airline launched "Vision 2010" and subsequently "Vision 2025," ambitious strategic roadmaps designed to transform the carrier into the leading aviation group in Africa. This strategy involved diversifying into seven distinct business units, including Cargo, Maintenance and Repair Overhaul (MRO), Aviation Academy, and In-flight Catering. As part of this growth, the airline pursued a multi-hub strategy, acquiring equity stakes in other African carriers such as ASKY Airlines in Togo and Malawi Airlines, thereby strengthening connectivity across the continent.

Fleet Evolution and Innovation
Ethiopian Airlines has consistently maintained one of the youngest and most technologically advanced fleets in the industry. It was the first airline in Africa to acquire the Boeing 767 in the 1980s, and later, the first to introduce the revolutionary Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350 XWB to the African skies. This commitment to innovation ensures operational efficiency and superior passenger comfort. Today, the airline continues to expand its global footprint, connecting the major administrative centers of the world with the immense potential of Africa.