Ethiopia’s national airline is preparing to resume regular flights to the northern Tigray region after a two-year absence.
This is made possible following a peace accord signed in South Africa on November 3 for a ceasefire between the Ethiopian government and the People’s Liberation Front of Tigray TPLF.
Under the terms of the peace treaty signed in South Africa after ten days of negotiations under the auspices of the African Union, the government of Ethiopia and the TPLF agreed to a “permanent cessation of hostilities” to end the Tigray War.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said the resumption of flights would help speed up the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region.
Speaking in local TV interview, the CEO also noted that Mekelle and Indaselassie airports are in a fit condition to accommodate flights, but Axum airport has been severely damaged in the conflict.
“There will be a need for passenger and cargo services in connection with humanitarian aid delivery. Various foreign humanitarian organisations are expected to provide humanitarian aid, and we are prepared to provide these services,” he said.
Ethiopian Airlines used to fly daily to the region before the conflict erupted on November 3, 2020.
