• Ethiopian Airlines signs MoU with SITA to enhance operations and passenger experience.
• Deal aligns with Vision 2035, aiming for 65 million passengers and 3 million tons of cargo.
• Expansion includes a new Bishoftu airport backed by the African Development Bank.

Ethiopian Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with aviation technology group SITA to jointly develop solutions that will improve the airline’s operations and passenger services.

SITA noted that as air travel demand grows across Africa, airlines must offer smoother and more efficient journeys, while destinations like Ethiopia are emerging as regional hubs for tourism, investment, and trade. This trend is putting pressure on national carriers to strengthen operations and maintain their reputation with travelers.

The agreement supports Ethiopian Airlines’ “Vision 2035” plan, which targets 65 million passengers compared to 19 million in 2024, and 3 million tons of cargo. The airline has also announced a new international airport project in Bishoftu, 45 km southeast of Addis Ababa. Supported by financing from the African Development Bank, the facility is expected to open by 2030 with an annual capacity of 60 million passengers.

With both infrastructure expansion and digital partnerships, Ethiopian aims to consolidate its leadership in African aviation and handle growing passenger flows more effectively. The deal also involves industrial partners, technology providers, accelerators, and start-ups, reflecting a broader vision of digitalization and modernization in African air transport.