Ethiopian Airlines flights and airline information

Ethiopian Airlines is the flagship of African aviation and the national carrier of Ethiopia, which is 100% state-owned. Over decades of successful operation, the company has transformed from a local operator into the largest aviation group on the continent. The main base and the primary hub for the carrier's global routes is the modern airport in Addis Ababa, which serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Africa and beyond.

The airline actively develops its route network and adheres to the highest international safety standards. A significant milestone in its development was joining the global Star Alliance, which allowed passengers to enjoy the benefits of a unified network and the loyalty programs of the world's leading carriers. Today, the company sets ambitious goals for expanding its presence on all continents while maintaining unique Ethiopian hospitality.

One of the key features of Ethiopian Airlines is its commitment to innovation. The airline regularly updates its fleet, focusing on modern and environmentally friendly aircraft types such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This not only enhances passenger comfort on board but also significantly reduces environmental impact. Attention to detail and the professionalism of the crews have been repeatedly recognized by prestigious international awards, including Skytrax ratings.

The group's leadership, headed by CEO Mesfin Tasew, focuses on operational efficiency and service excellence. Ethiopian Airlines is not just a transportation company; it is a powerful infrastructure project that includes an aviation academy, a cargo terminal, and a catering service. This integrated approach ensures smooth operations and provides high-quality services to millions of passengers annually.

• Official Website: ethiopianairlines.com
• Global Support Phone: +251 116 179 900 (main), 6787 (local number in Ethiopia)
• Russian Representative Office: +7 (495) 937-59-45 (daily from 10:00 to 19:00)
• Email: CustomerRelations@ethiopianairlines.com (customer inquiries), Reservation@ethiopianairlines.com (bookings), ShebaMiles@ethiopianairlines.com (loyalty program)
• Social Media: Official pages are available on Facebook and Instagram.
• Mobile App: Available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
• Head Office Address: Airport Enterprise Building, Ground Floor, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Emergency Support: It is recommended to contact +251 11 517 4422 for prompt resolution of issues.

For the most up-to-date information and to contact specific departments, we always recommend checking the contact details on the airline's official website.

Carry-on baggage rules for Ethiopian Airlines depend on the class of service. Economy Class passengers are usually allowed to bring one piece weighing up to 7 kg, while Business Class allows two pieces of 7 kg each. The dimensions of the carry-on baggage must allow it to be placed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. In addition to the main piece, personal items such as a laptop, a handbag, or an umbrella are permitted.

Checked baggage allowances also vary: in Economy Class, the standard limit is often two pieces of 23 kg each, while for Business Class (Cloud Nine), it is two or three pieces of 32 kg each. The exact parameters depend on the specific route and fare plan, so it is recommended to check the information on your ticket or in your personal account on the website. Excess weight is charged at established rates, which may be higher if paid directly at the airport.

Special equipment, such as musical instruments or sports gear (skis, surfboards), is transported by prior arrangement. Strollers and car seats are usually carried free of charge in addition to the baggage allowance. It is important to remember that there are strict restrictions on the transportation of dangerous items: flammable substances, high-power lithium batteries, and sharp objects are prohibited in the cabin.

To ensure the safety of your belongings, we advise using durable suitcases with reliable locks and always attaching a name tag. If you plan to carry fragile items, be sure to notify the staff at the check-in counter to have special labeling applied. The most current data on allowances and surcharges is always available in the Baggage section on the airline's official website.

Pet Transport in the Cabin

• Cats and small dogs are allowed in the aircraft cabin if their weight, together with the container, does not exceed the established limit (usually up to 8 kg).
• The dimensions of the carrier must allow the animal to stand up and turn around freely, and the container must fit under the seat.
• The total number of animals on a single flight may be limited, so the service must be booked in advance.

Transport in the Baggage Compartment

• Animals whose weight exceeds the cabin limits are transported in a heated baggage compartment.
• The container must comply with IATA standards: have a secure lock, ventilation, and a moisture-absorbent bottom.
• It is necessary to provide the animal with a sufficient amount of water and food for the duration of the flight.

Required Documents

• An international veterinary passport with all vaccination records is required for travel.
• A health certificate issued by a certified veterinarian shortly before departure is mandatory.
• The passenger is responsible for complying with the veterinary requirements of the destination and transit countries.

Restrictions and Preparation

• The airline may restrict the transport of brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds due to health risks during flight.
• During periods of extreme temperatures (severe heat or cold), transport in the baggage compartment may be temporarily suspended.
• It is recommended to accustom the animal to the carrier in advance to reduce stress levels during travel.

The cost of the service is calculated as excess baggage payment. To clarify all details and confirm the possibility of transporting your pet, be sure to contact the airline before purchasing your ticket.

ShebaMiles Loyalty Program

ShebaMiles is an exclusive program for frequent flyers of Ethiopian Airlines, designed to make your travels even more pleasant and rewarding. Participating in the program allows you to accumulate miles for every flight and exchange them for valuable rewards.

Membership Tiers and Privileges

• Blue: The entry level, assigned immediately after registration. It allows you to start accumulating miles.
• Silver: Provides priority registration, lounge access, and an additional baggage allowance.
• Gold: Includes all Silver benefits, plus priority boarding, fast-track security, and access to business lounges across the entire Star Alliance network.
• Platinum: The highest level, offering maximum bonuses, guaranteed seat confirmation, and personalized service.

Accumulating and Using Miles

• Miles are earned for flights with Ethiopian Airlines and all Star Alliance partner airlines.
• Additional bonuses can be earned by using the services of program partners: hotels, car rental companies, and banks.
• Accumulated miles can be spent on reward flight tickets, upgrades to Business Class, or payments for excess baggage.

How to Join

Becoming a ShebaMiles member is completely free by filling out the form on the official website. After registration, you will receive a personal number that must be provided during every booking. A dedicated address is available for account management and program support: ShebaMiles@ethiopianairlines.com.

Ethiopian Airlines offers high standards of service divided into two main classes. Business Class, known as Cloud Nine, provides passengers with seats that transform into comfortable beds (on long-haul flights), a gourmet menu featuring national and international cuisine, and a wide selection of drinks. For relaxation and work on board, increased personal space and access to exclusive airport lounges are provided.

Economy Class focuses on comfort and affordability. Passengers can expect ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests, hot meals, and attentive service. Most flights feature a modern entertainment system with individual screens showcasing the latest movies, music, and games. On some regional routes, the cabin configuration may consist of Economy Class only, allowing for more competitive fares.

The airline pays special attention to the needs of all traveler categories. For families with small children, bassinets and a special children's menu are provided, which should be ordered in advance. Passengers with disabilities are provided with full escort and boarding assistance. A wide selection of special meals (vegetarian, halal, dietary) is also available to meet various cultural and medical requirements.

The Ethiopian Airlines route network connects dozens of countries across several continents, making the world more accessible to millions of travelers. The primary connection hub and the airline's largest hub is the international airport in Addis Ababa, from where flights are operated to key metropolises.

Thanks to the strategic location of the hub, passengers can easily reach destinations such as Dubai, Rome, or Brussels. The airline also ensures reliable domestic connectivity, linking the capital with cities such as Gondar and Mekele.

To find the most favorable Ethiopian Airlines fares, it is recommended to book tickets as early as possible — ideally 2–3 months before departure. The airline often holds seasonal sales, information about which appears first in official newsletters and the mobile app. Purchasing tickets on weekdays, especially on Tuesday or Wednesday, is often cheaper than on weekends.

Online check-in for flights opens 36 hours before departure and allows you to save significant time at the airport. Early check-in also gives you an advantage when choosing a seat: you can secure seats with extra legroom or window seats for free or for a small additional fee. The airline's mobile app makes this process as simple and convenient as possible, allowing you to save your boarding pass directly on your smartphone.

When booking, it is worth paying attention to the fare conditions: the cheapest tickets are often non-refundable, so for your own peace of mind, we recommend taking out travel insurance. If you encounter difficulties with online booking, you can always contact support via the international number +251 116 179 900 or contact the Russian office. Remember that current exchange and refund rules depend on the specific fare selected at the time of purchase.

The history of Ethiopian Airlines began on December 21, 1945, when the airline was officially founded by decree of Emperor Haile Selassie I. The carrier began operations on April 8, 1946, performing its first international flight to Cairo. From the very beginning, the company was owned by the Ethiopian government, which allowed it to become a powerful tool for developing the country's economy and international relations.

In the 1950s and 60s, the airline actively expanded its geography, becoming the first African company to start flights to China and launch transatlantic routes. A significant milestone was the adoption of jet aviation, which significantly reduced travel time between continents. Ethiopian Airlines has always strived to be a technological leader in the region, implementing modern management and training systems.

The modern stage of development was marked by joining Star Alliance in 2011, which confirmed the carrier's high status on the global stage. The company's fleet has constantly evolved: from propeller-driven Douglas C-47s to the latest Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 airliners. Today, the company possesses one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in Africa, allowing it to successfully compete with global giants.

In recent years, Ethiopian Airlines has been implementing the "Vision 2035" strategy, aimed at transforming the group into one of the most competitive aviation holdings in the world. Special attention is paid to sustainable development and the digitalization of services. Despite global challenges, the airline maintains its status as a national treasure and continues to connect Africa with the rest of the world, demonstrating steady growth and an innovative approach.