Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline, is making technical adjustments to its flight routes in North America for the upcoming winter flight schedule. The airline will shift its refueling stop from Dublin to Rome-Fiumicino on four key routes starting from October 29, 2023.
With the launch of the Northern winter 2023/24 season, Ethiopian Airlines is streamlining its Westbound North America services. The following routes will now be routed through Rome Fiumicino instead of Dublin according to Aeroroutes:
Addis Ababa – Atlanta: Three weekly flights operated by 787-9 aircraft (Increasing to four from December 3, 2023).
Addis Ababa – Chicago O’Hare: Six weekly flights served by 787-8 aircraft (Expanding to daily service from December 8, 2023).
Addis Ababa – Toronto: Five weekly flights operated by A350-900XWB.
Addis Ababa – Washington Dulles: Daily service with a mix of 777 and 787 aircraft (ET500/501).
It’s worth noting that Ethiopian Airlines had previously routed its westbound North American service via Rome until May 2015.
Bangui: A New Gateway to Central Africa
In addition to these technical changes, the airline will commence thrice-weekly passenger services to Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR) starting November 15, 2023. This new route will be operational on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, linking the capital of CAR with the airline’s extensive global network.
CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Mesfin Tasew, expressed his excitement about this development, stating, “We are excited to add Central African Republic to our vast African and global network. With the new services, our esteemed customers to and from Bangui will enjoy our renowned, award-winning services.” He further emphasized the positive impact of these flights on socio-economic activities between Addis Ababa and Bangui, and the potential for strengthening bilateral ties with the rest of the world.
This strategic move marks Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to expanding its flights within Africa and beyond. The Star Alliance carrier has a history in the Central African Republic market, having served the route between 2010 and 2015. With this relaunch, passengers will enjoy seamless flight options to more than 150 international and domestic destinations aboard the airline’s modern fleet of over 140 aircraft.
