Ethiopian Airlines is Ethiopia's national flag carrier airline, established on December 21, 1945, under the leadership of Emperor Haile Selassie, with support from the USA, UK, and France. It made its first flight on April 8, 1946, from Addis Ababa to Asmara and then to Cairo, expanding its international flight network in 1951. The company's headquarters and main base are located at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Airlines joined Star Alliance on December 13, 2011, becoming the third member of the alliance in Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines has a modern fleet of approximately 151 aircraft, with notable models including the Boeing 737, 777, and 787 Dreamliner. The company operates flights to 155 passenger destinations worldwide, 22 of which are domestic flights. Additionally, it serves 68 cargo destinations. With an annual passenger capacity in the millions, it stands out as one of Africa's largest airlines.
As a full-service airline, Ethiopian Airlines is known for its profitable operations, long-haul networks, and premium services. The company holds a leading position in African aviation and is known for its slogan "The New Spirit of Africa," celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2021. This reputation and unique service approach have made Ethiopian Airlines a globally recognized brand.
Ethiopian Airlines offers passengers a wide network of destinations, operating flights to 155 locations worldwide. Of these destinations, 22 are domestic flights, providing the most comprehensive and accessible airline network on the African continent. Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa serves as the airline's main hub, offering passengers convenient transfer opportunities. In addition to Africa, it has an extensive international flight network in Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East.
Popular routes include major cities such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, London, and Dubai from Addis Ababa. As a member of Star Alliance, Ethiopian Airlines offers passengers access to more destinations through codeshare agreements. These partnerships are particularly strengthened by agreements with airlines such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and United Airlines. Seasonal routes offer various options for both tourist and business travel, meeting the diverse travel needs of passengers.
Ethiopian Airlines - Baggage Policy
Carry-On / Cabin Baggage: When traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, you are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage in economy class. The maximum weight for this luggage is 7 kg, and its dimensions should be 23 x 40 x 55 cm. In business class, passengers can carry two pieces of hand luggage, each also weighing 7 kg. In addition to your hand luggage, you can bring personal items such as a coat, umbrella, reading material, and food purchased at the airport, as long as they do not exceed 5 kg.Checked Baggage: In economy class, you are entitled to carry two pieces of luggage, each weighing 23 kg. Business class passengers can carry three pieces of luggage, each weighing 23 kg. Star Alliance Gold members have an additional allowance of 20 kg or one extra piece of luggage. If you need extra baggage, you can easily purchase it through online platforms.Special Baggage: Transporting special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and strollers is possible with Ethiopian Airlines. However, for specific rules and charges related to transporting such items, we recommend contacting customer service for more detailed information. Special baggage may have size and weight restrictions, so it is important to make the necessary arrangements before your trip.
Ethiopian Airlines - Check-in & Seat Selection
Ethiopian Airlines offers various options for check-in to its passengers. Online check-in typically opens 24-48 hours before the flight and closes a few hours before departure. Passengers can also check in through the Ethiopian Airlines mobile app. You can complete your check-in process at the airport using kiosks and counters. You can download your boarding pass to your mobile device, receive it via email, or obtain a printed version at the airport. Additionally, some flights offer an automatic check-in option.
Regarding seat selection, Ethiopian Airlines provides different options for passengers. While free seat selection is available in some fare classes, it may be chargeable in others. It is generally possible to select a seat during online check-in. For passengers seeking extra comfort, premium options such as seats with extra legroom, emergency exit rows, or front-row seats are available. These seats are usually offered for an additional fee.
Ethiopian Airlines - Meal Service
Ethiopian Airlines offers a rich meal service to its passengers during flights. In economy class, under the "Cloud 9" service, hot full-course meals, various beverages, and light snacks are served. The menus blend the flavors of Ethiopia's authentic cuisine with international dishes. Particularly, examples from Chinese, Middle Eastern, and African cuisines are included in the menu. Meal service is complimentary on long-haul flights, while light snacks are offered on short-haul flights. Ethiopian Airlines also provides special diet options such as vegetarian, vegan, halal, and kosher. Business class passengers have the option to pre-order, allowing them to receive their preferred special meals during their journey.
Ethiopian Airlines - Loyalty Program
Ethiopian Airlines offers a loyalty program called ShebaMiles for frequent flyers. With ShebaMiles, passengers can earn miles on Ethiopian Airlines flights, Star Alliance member airlines, and certain other partner airlines. Additionally, it is possible to accumulate miles through hotels, car rental companies, and credit card partners included in the ShebaMiles program.
Membership levels are categorized as Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Silver members enjoy privileges such as extra baggage allowance and priority check-in, while Gold and Platinum members additionally benefit from lounge access, priority boarding, and free flight upgrades. Earned miles can be used for award tickets, flight class upgrades, and other travel services. Thanks to the Star Alliance partnership, miles can be used for travel with many different airlines.
Ethiopian Airlines - Travel Classes
Economy Flex: Ethiopian Airlines' Economy Flex package offers a basic economy class experience. In this package, passengers have a 23 kg baggage allowance, but an additional fee is required for seat selection. Meals offered during the flight make your journey more enjoyable. Change and cancellation flexibility is moderate, but these processes can be done for a certain fee.Economy Max: The Economy Max package is ideal for passengers seeking more flexibility. It offers a total of 46 kg carrying capacity with two 23 kg baggage allowances. Free seat selection and meal service make your travel more comfortable. Additionally, changes and cancellations can be made free of charge within certain periods, which is a great advantage for long-haul journeys.Business Flex: For those prioritizing comfort on business trips, the Business Flex package offers a premium experience. It includes two 32 kg baggage allowances, free seat and lounge access, making your travel easier. With full meal service and lie-flat seats (on 787/777 aircraft), long flights are more comfortable than ever. It also offers unlimited change and cancellation flexibility.Business Classic: The Business Classic package, offering Ethiopian Airlines' top-level service, is designed for those seeking a luxurious travel experience. It includes two 32 kg baggage allowances, priority check-in, and boarding privileges, making your travel even more special. Meals prepared by chefs and wide seat spacing ensure your comfort throughout the flight. Extra advantages are also offered for Star Alliance Gold members.
Ethiopian Airlines - Cancellation & Changes
Cancellation Conditions: Ticket cancellation with Ethiopian Airlines varies depending on the ticket type and route. From the reservation date, within 24 hours, for reservations made at least 7 days before departure, you have the right to a full refund. For non-refundable tickets, no refund is available, but taxes may be partially refunded. For refundable tickets, a full refund is possible, but a cancellation fee applies. Cancellation fees range from 30 USD for local flights, 220-240 USD for North America, and 120-140 USD for other routes.Change Rules: For Ethiopian Airlines ticket changes, date or route changes are chargeable and depend on the ticket conditions. Name changes are generally not allowed. With flexible ticket options, you can use your right to make changes under more favorable conditions. Additionally, with the Refund Protection service, you can obtain a full refund guarantee; this service is offered for an additional fee.Refund Process: Refund processes can be initiated through Ethiopian Airlines' online "Manage Booking" system or by phone. Once approved, the refund is made to your original payment method within 7-14 days. In the case of a no-show, the ticket value is forfeited, and a 100% penalty applies. During this process, it is important to pay attention to your ticket type and cancellation conditions to receive a refund.
Ethiopian Airlines - Seat Comfort & Entertainment
Seat Comfort and Legroom: When traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, the seat pitch in Economy Class ranges from 79-81 cm, while the width is offered between 43-46 cm. The recline angle of the seats is 10-13 cm. In Business Class, the seat pitch is 193 cm, with a width ranging from 53-61 cm, offering top-level comfort with full recline capability. The seats are generally fabric-covered, and you can experience this comfort on long-haul flights on aircraft like the Boeing 787 or 777. On short-haul flights, especially on flights other than the A350, the legroom in Economy Class may drop to 76 cm.In-Flight Entertainment: Ethiopian Airlines' in-flight entertainment system is quite rich with the AVOD system available at each seat. In Economy Class, screens are 10-11 inches, while in Business Class, they are 15-18 inches, offering over 1000 movie, music, and game options. Wi-Fi service is available on long-haul flights and is offered for a fee; hourly rates range from 5-15 USD, while free messaging is available in Business Class. All seats are equipped with USB and power outlets. On short-haul flights, entertainment options are limited to overhead screens, and Wi-Fi service is not available.
Ethiopian Airlines - Special Services
Unaccompanied Minor Service: Ethiopian Airlines offers special services for unaccompanied minors aged 5-12. For children aged 12-15, this service is optional. Children are safely accompanied by trained staff throughout the flight. This service is provided for a certain fee and must be specified during reservation.Pregnant Passenger Policy: Pregnant passengers expecting a single baby can travel with Ethiopian Airlines up to the 36th week. However, a doctor's report is required from the 28th week onwards. This policy is implemented to ensure the safety of expectant mothers.Disabled Passenger Assistance: Wheelchair and other mobility aids are provided free of charge for disabled passengers. To benefit from these services, it is important to notify with WCHR or WCHS codes during reservation. Trained staff provide all necessary assistance to passengers.Other Services: For families with infants, bassinet reservations can be made for infants up to 10 kg on long-haul flights. Priority boarding is available for business class and ShebaMiles Gold+ members. Additionally, Cloud Nine Lounge and VIP/CIP meet-and-greet services at the airport are provided for a fee, with discounted options available for ET Plus members. All these services must be specified during reservation.
Ethiopian Airlines - Pet Transport Policy
Cabin Pet Transport: When traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, you can only carry dogs or cats in the cabin. The total weight of the animal, including the carrier, must not exceed 8 kg, and the carrier dimensions must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20 cm. In economy class, 2 animals per compartment can be carried, while in business class, 1 animal is allowed.Cargo/Baggage Compartment Transport: Larger animals that do not meet cabin conditions must be transported in the cargo hold. It is recommended to contact Ethiopian Airlines directly for details such as weight limits and breed restrictions.Required Documents and Rules: When traveling with your pet, health certificates, vaccination records, and microchips are required. These documents may vary according to the regulations of the destination country. Special policies exist for guide or support animals, and contacting the airline directly is the best way to address these. Notification must be made in advance when making a reservation.
Ethiopian Airlines - Travel Tips
To get the best ticket prices for your trip with Ethiopian Airlines, it may be advantageous to book early. Being flexible with your dates can help you find more affordable prices. When selecting a seat, you might prefer the emergency exit rows for more legroom. Additionally, sitting at the front of the plane can allow for a quicker exit upon landing, making your flight more comfortable. Since Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is Ethiopian Airlines' main hub, you can take advantage of lounge access and other amenities there. For connecting flights, considering the minimum waiting time is important for time management. With Ethiopian Airlines' mobile app, you can easily check in and track your flight status in real-time.
The information on this page about Ethiopian Airlines is for general informational purposes only. Airlines may change their baggage rules, travel classes, cancellation/change policies and other services without prior notice. For the most current and accurate information, please visit the official Ethiopian Airlines website. Tripuck cannot be held responsible for any changes to this information.
Carry-On / Cabin Baggage: When traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, you are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage in economy class. The maximum weight for this luggage is 7 kg, and its dimensions should be 23 x 40 x 55 cm.
Ethiopian Airlines offers various options for check-in to its passengers. Online check-in typically opens 24-48 hours before the flight and closes a few hours before departure.
Ethiopian Airlines operates flights to 113 cities in 75 countries. Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Brazil are among its most popular destinations.
Ethiopian Airlines ticket prices vary by route and date. The current lowest fare starts from £146. Use the search box above for the latest prices.
Ethiopian Airlines offers a rich meal service to its passengers during flights. In economy class, under the "Cloud 9" service, hot full-course meals, various beverages, and light snacks are served.
Ethiopian Airlines offers a loyalty program called ShebaMiles for frequent flyers. With ShebaMiles, passengers can earn miles on Ethiopian Airlines flights, Star Alliance member airlines, and certain other partner airlines.
Cancellation Conditions: Ticket cancellation with Ethiopian Airlines varies depending on the ticket type and route. From the reservation date, within 24 hours, for reservations made at least 7 days before departure, you have the right to a full refund.
Cabin Pet Transport: When traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, you can only carry dogs or cats in the cabin. The total weight of the animal, including the carrier, must not exceed 8 kg, and the carrier dimensions must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20 cm.