The foreign airline increasing flights and loyal to Israel

Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its Tel Aviv-Addis Ababa route to 26 weekly flights in August 2026, maintaining service throughout recent wars. The airline doubled revenue to $7.6 billion and nearly tripled operating profit to $1 billion. A new $12.5 billion airport in Bishoftu, due by 2030, will be Africa's largest. Israeli demand for Ethiopia rose 22% and for Zanzibar by 132%.

Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its Tel Aviv-Addis Ababa route to 26 weekly flights in August 2026, up from 18 in June. The airline has maintained service to Israel throughout the recent wars, positioning itself as a loyal foreign carrier. Revenue doubled from $3.7 billion in 2019-2020 to $7.6 billion in 2024-2025, while operating profit nearly tripled from $370 million to $1 billion. The growth is attributed to a government decision to make Ethiopia an aviation hub, including a new $12.5 billion airport in Bishoftu, due by 2030, planned as Africa's largest with capacity for 110 million passengers annually. Israeli demand for Ethiopia has risen 22% in searches year-over-year, and for Zanzibar by 132%. The airline connects Israelis to destinations across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Aviation expert Yehuda Zafrani notes the airline's transformation from a local carrier to an international one with over 160 destinations. TAL Aviation Israel managing director Guy Thaler highlights the efficiency of Addis Ababa's hub. The article frames the expansion as a sign of loyalty and business acumen.