ADDIS ABABA, July 29 – Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airlines, reported a 20% increase in revenue for the 2025/26 financial year, reinforcing its position as Africa’s largest airline as growth in passenger traffic and cargo operations boosted performance.
According to figures published by the Ethiopia News Agency, the state-owned carrier generated $9.1 billion in revenue during the financial year ending 7 July 2026, up from the previous year.
Passenger numbers rose by 10% to 20.7 million, reflecting continued demand for both regional and international travel, while cargo volumes increased by 16% year on year to 897,000 metric tonnes.
The airline also continued to expand its operations during the year, adding nine aircraft to its fleet, which now comprises more than 150 aircraft. It also upgraded facilities at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to support its growing network.
Earlier this year, Ethiopian Airlines announced plans to strengthen its long-haul operations by purchasing six additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. In June, the airline also said it would decide within three months on an order for 25 smaller commercial aircraft to expand its domestic and regional route network.
While the airline did not disclose its profit for the financial year, the Ethiopia News Agency reported that financial performance was affected by flight cancellations linked to conflict in the Middle East and the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite those operational challenges, the latest results highlight Ethiopian Airlines’ continued expansion strategy and its growing importance in African aviation. The airline has remained one of the continent’s strongest-performing carriers, investing in fleet modernisation, cargo capacity and airport infrastructure to support rising passenger demand and strengthen its role as a regional and global aviation hub.
