Addis Ababa — In a major boost to national connectivity, Ethiopian Airlines has announced that it will officially inaugurate three new domestic destinations in April 2026. The airline will begin scheduled flights to Negele Borana, Gore Metu, and Debre Markos, marking a significant milestone in its domestic expansion strategy.
These new routes are a core component of the airline’s “Vision 2035” roadmap, which aims to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure while fueling tourism, trade, and regional investment.
Connecting the Unconnected: The New Destinations
The addition of these three towns to the Ethiopian Airlines network is designed to bridge the gap between regional economic hubs and the capital, Addis Ababa.
- Negele Borana (Southern Ethiopia): Known for its vast livestock resources and proximity to cross-border trade routes, this new flight will integrate the southern pastoralist economy with the central market. It is expected to drastically reduce the transit time for business travelers and government officials.
- Gore Metu (Southwest Ethiopia): This region is a lush, high-potential agricultural zone famous for its premium coffee and spices. By opening a direct air link, the airline is making the natural beauty and agricultural wealth of Southwest Ethiopia accessible to both exporters and eco-tourists.
- Debre Markos (Amhara Region): As a historic center of education and commerce, Debre Markos has long been a vital node in Northern Ethiopia. The launch of air services will modernize transport for the city’s growing student population and business community, bypassing the lengthy road journey.
Strategic Impact: Time, Trade, and Tourism
The decision to expand into these specific areas is driven by three primary economic catalysts:
- Drastic Time Savings: Travel that previously took 10 to 15 hours by road—often across challenging terrain—will now be completed in roughly 45 to 60 minutes. This efficiency is a “game-changer” for emergency services, perishable goods, and administrative operations.
- Investment Incentives: Reliable air access is often a prerequisite for international and local investors. These new gateways are expected to attract agro-processing industries and hospitality ventures to previously overlooked regions.
- Unlocking Tourism: From the unique cultural heritage of the Borana people to the dense forests of the southwest, Ethiopia holds many “hidden gems.” These flights will allow tourists to reach remote attractions without the fatigue of multi-day road trips.
Supporting “Vision 2035”
Under its “Vision 2035” strategy, Ethiopian Airlines Group aims to increase its annual passenger numbers to 67 million and its revenue to $25 billion. While its international reach is world-renowned, the airline recognizes that a robust domestic network is the backbone of national development.
The grand opening ceremonies in Negele Borana, Gore Metu, and Debre Markos this coming April are expected to be attended by high-ranking government officials, regional leaders, and community elders.
The airline is expected to release the specific weekly flight schedules and promotional fare structures in the coming weeks.
Stay Tuned: As the infrastructure nears completion, Ethiopian Airlines continues to prove why it remains the “Spirit of Africa” by bringing the furthest corners of the nation closer together.