Ethiopian Airlines to Add Dhaka, Bangladesh, to its Expanding Global Network

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, is pleased to announce the commencement of its new six weekly flights to Dhaka, Bangladesh, starting November 1, 2024. The new service will be operated with the state-of-the-art Boeing B787 Dreamliner, offering passengers a comfortable and seamless travel experience.

This new route will further strengthen Ethiopian’s presence in South Asia, providing convenient connections between Bangladesh and key destinations across Africa and beyond. The new flights are scheduled for convenient departures from Addis Ababa and arrivals in Dhaka, facilitating smooth connections and a seamless travel experience.

The flight schedule is as follows: Press Release

Press Release – Ethiopian Airlines to Add Dhaka, Bangladesh, to its Expanding Global NetworkDownload

ALTF 2024: UNWTO Africa collaborating with stakeholders to eliminate travel connectivity barriers.

The United Nations agency focused on tourism, UNWTO says that despite the growth of tourism in Africa, connectivity—the ease with which people can travel between locations—remains a challenge.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 7th Edition of the 2024 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF), the UNWTO Regional Director for Africa, Elcia Grandcourt, said that the organisation is working with stakeholders to simplify visa entry requirements, leverage innovative systems to digitalise visa procedures, and advocate for a single, unified air transport market.

She emphasised, “Despite the growth, connectivity has been identified as a key issue that needs to be addressed to fully unlock Africa’s tourism potential. This was reiterated by Ministers of Tourism at the 67th Regional Commission Meeting for Africa, held in Zambia in July. Enhancing connectivity for seamless travel will not only attract more international tourists but also boost intra-regional tourism, a crucial element for the continent’s tourism growth.”

Grandcourt further stated, “UNWTO remains committed to addressing this issue and will continue working closely with national administrations of member states, regional and international organizations, as well as public and private sector stakeholders.”

Botswana’s Vice President, Slumber Tsogwane said the country is investing in developing its tourism sector, proudly touting Botswana’s beef as the best in the world.

He said, “Tourism in Botswana is a major contributor to the national economy, which is why the government has reviewed its Tourism Policy and developed a National Tourism Strategy and Master Plan to provide a framework for sector growth.”

He concluded by inviting participants to experience Botswana’s unique offerings, stating, “I trust you will have a chance to taste our beef, which is unparalleled globally, experience our cultural diversity, and take home our crafts as memories of Botswana.”

Kwakye Donkor Chief Executive Officer of Africa Tourism Partners (ATP), the organizers of the forum, reaffirmed ATP’s commitment to helping African nations unlock their tourism potential.

Director of Trade in Services, Investment, IPR & Digital Trade at AfCFTA, Emily Mburu-Ndoria encouraged countries to implement mechanisms to capitalize on tourism and outlined AfCFTA’s ongoing support initiatives.

The Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) is a key Pan-African platform that brings together leaders from Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors.

The forum focuses on sharing insights, developing strategies to boost intra-African travel, and fostering networking opportunities. It also aims to strengthen the global brand of “Destination Africa” and promote tourism growth across the continent.

Source: Joy online.

Kenya eyes five million tourist arrivals by 2027

The Ministry of Tourism is devising a new strategy to increase international tourist arrivals to five million by 2027.

It seeks to achieve this through a Tembea Kenya, which will soon be launched, to boost the number from the current about 2 million arrivals yearly.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano spoke while hosting tourism players at an event in Nairobi yesterday.

“This happens mainly through participation in local and international events, campaigns, policy advocacy, and in creating innovative tourism products and experiences,” Miano said.

“During my interaction with the tourism sector stakeholders this afternoon, I made a commitment to build strong linkages with the private sector and to make the tourism industry the number one contributor of foreign exchange earnings and job creation,” she said.

In the first half of this year, Kenya generated 142.5 billion shillings in tourism revenue during the first, assisted by a significant rise in visitor numbers, according to the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB).

This represents an increase from 1.06 billion dollars in the same period last year, the KTB reported.

The KTB said that Kenya welcomed 1.03 million international visitors, marking a 21.3 percent increase from 847,810 visitors during the same period in 2023.

Domestic tourism also saw growth, with 2.25 million bed nights recorded, about a 10 percent increase from 2.06 million bed nights in the previous year.

Source:  Travel News.  

African Airlines’ Passenger Revenue Jump by 8% in Q1 2024 – AFRAA

The world airline industry has maintained its trajectory of recovery during the first quarter of 2024 with a rebound in passenger demand, according to African Airlines Association (AFRAA).

African airlines carried more international traffic during the first quarter of 2024, around 33% of the total traffic. This is a seasonal effect due to the Easter Holiday usually rise during Q1, particularly in March.

The Intra-African traffic represented 30% whereas domestic traffic was 37% during this quarter.

Passenger Revenue in the first quarter 2024 increased by 8% as compared to passenger Revenue in the first quarter 2023.

International traffic is dominated by the intra-African, with 44% in Q1 2024. Outside the continent, Europe is the first destination region of African airlines.

South Africa is the dominant market in terms of domestic traffic in Africa; it recorded 5 routes amongst top 10 in this first quarter 2024. Egypt, Kenya, and Nigeria also have domestic routes among the ten busiest.

The non-domestic traffic is dominating for intra-African traffic especially between Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, representing 40% of the continental traffic.

The ten busiest Intra-African routes are generally within Southern and Northern Africa. Only one Eastern (Nairobi – Entebbe) and Western African route (Accra – Lagos) appeared in the top 10 during the first quarter 2024.

Addis Ababa airport handled around 192 thousand tons of cargo during Q1 2024. Johannesburg and Nairobi followed with 121 thousand and 112 thousand tons, respectively. Two West and East African airports are part of the top 10: Lagos ,Dakar, Nairobi and Entebbe.

During the first quarter of 2024, among the 54 countries in the African continent, 7 Countries have direct flights to more than 20 African countries, an increase compared to the first quarter 2023 where 4 countries had direct flights toward other countries. Ethiopia is leading with direct services to other countries within Africa.

African Airlines Association (AFRAA) estimates that passenger traffic carried by African operators in 2024 will be about 98 million.

The African Airlines Association is a trade association of African airlines, and is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. The primary purpose of AFRAA is to establish and facilitate co-operation between African airlines.

50 airlines comprising of all the major intercontinental African operators and the Association’s members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by all African airlines.

Source: Kenyan Wallstreet.

ASKY to resume flights to Pointe-Noire from October 2, 2024

ASKY Airlines has announced the resumption of flights to Pointe-Noire, Republic of Congo, starting from October 2, 2024. After a multi-year suspension, the airline is set to restore this strategic route, underscoring its dedication to bolstering economic growth across Africa and enhancing connectivity between communities on the continent.

Commitment to Economic Development and Connectivity

The reopening of Pointe-Noire aligns with ASKY’s vision to promote economic and social development in Africa by providing efficient and reliable air transport solutions. This new route will facilitate trade, business opportunities, and interpersonal relationships between countries, thereby strengthening regional integration.

With the addition of Pointe-Noire, ASKY Airlines expands its network to 29 destinations in West and Central Africa. Flights will be operated three times a week via Luanda Airport (LAD), offering increased connectivity and flexible travel options for our passengers.

Flight Schedules and Frequencies

Flights to Pointe-Noire will be operated three times per week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) with departure from Lome at 13:00pm for arrival in Pointe-Noire at 19:30pm. The return flights are scheduled on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday to depart from Pointe-Noire at 07:10am for arrival in Lome at 11:40am. All times are in local time.

These schedules are designed to offer optimal connections with other ASKY destinations, thus facilitating travel across the continent.

Book Now

ASKY invites passengers to book their tickets now to discover or rediscover Pointe-Noire, a dynamic and growing city. Enjoy our superior service and our commitment to your comfort and safety. For more information and to book your tickets, please visit our website at www.flyasky.com or contact our local offices.

Source:Voyages Afriq.  

CONNECTING YOU TO SOUTH AFRICA WITH 37 WEEKLY FLIGHTS

What does South Africa have in common with Kenya? Beautiful beaches, wildlife safaris, buzzing business hubs, unique cultures and stunning tourist attractions. If you are looking for a convenient way to travel to South Africa, then Kenya Airways is your answer. Whether you are a group of friends or a family who want to explore there’s something for you to discover in South Africa.

If you are businessman or are travelling for a work assignment, you have multiple options to choose from the available flights. Kenya Airways has 37 weekly flights to Africa that are conveniently timed to fit in with your schedule.

That’s not it, Kenya Airways flies to two points in South Africa which makes it even more convenient depending on which part of South Africa you want to explore. You can either choose to go to Johannesburg where KQ flies 28 times weekly or Cape Town where KQ flies 9 times weekly.

If you want to explore Southern Africa, KQ also connects the South further by providing service between Cape Town and Victoria Falls with 3 weekly flights and Cape Town to Livingston, 3 times weekly.

With competitive fares coupled with our comfortable aircrafts and African hospitality, Kenya Airways is indeed your airline of choice as you explore the South.

Key Stakeholders Convene for Consultative Workshop on Cruise Tourism in Seychelles

The Seychelles Tourism Department, in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), hosted a two-and-a-half-day consultative workshop starting on Tuesday, 20th August, to evaluate the cruise tourism sector in Seychelles. The workshop aimed to assess the cost-benefit aspects and strategic potential of this growing industry.

Following a situational analysis conducted by UNECA in April 2024, the delegation returned to present their preliminary findings and report, with the workshop serving as a platform for key stakeholders to engage, provide insights, and contribute valuable feedback.

Leading the inaugural discussions were UNECA’s Professor Pius Odunga, Ms. Carine Rukera, and Dr. Geoffrey Manyara alongside Mr. Paul Lebon, Director General for Destination Planning and Development within the Seychelles Tourism Department, who officially opened the event.

The workshop focused on evaluating the current state of the cruise tourism sector, including infrastructure, services, and market trends. Participants explored the challenges and opportunities within the sector, focusing on environmental, social, and economic impacts.

Additionally, participants got the opportunity to work on enhancing collaboration among government agencies, local businesses, and communities. The workshop also sought to develop actionable recommendations and a strategic plan to guide sustainable growth in the sector.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Rukera highlighted the importance of understanding both the financial benefits and costs associated with cruise operations. She stated, “As we engage with all of you present in these few days, it will be imperative to understand financial benefits and costs associated with cruise operations to be able to grab the sector’s overall impact on the Seychelles economy and local economies.”

Ms. Rukera also reaffirmed UNECA’s strong commitment to collaborating with the government of Seychelles to achieve sustainable development and fully capitalise on the opportunities presented by cruise tourism. She acknowledged the crucial role of the participants’ dedication and expertise in advancing actionable strategies and recommendations for optimising the economic impact of cruise tourism.

Mr. Lebon, in his opening reflections, clarified that the workshop, at this stage, is not intended for validation but is open to suggestions and recommendations.

As part of the workshop’s primary objectives, he highlighted the importance of assessing the current state of the cruise tourism industry in Seychelles, including infrastructure, services, and market trends.

He acknowledged the relevance of risks, such as environmental, social, and economic challenges, and noted the persistent concern of piracy in the Indian Ocean. He indicated that while the situation is currently under control, it remains a potentially volatile point.

The first day of the workshop featured keynote presentations on global trends, sustainability practices, and relevant case studies, followed by panel discussions with government officials, industry leaders, environmentalists, and community representatives. The second day was dedicated to strategic planning, with breakout sessions on infrastructure development, environmental management, marketing strategies, and community engagement.

The workshop concluded with a plenary session where outcomes from the breakout sessions were presented and discussed to prioritise actions and plan the way forward. The consultants are anticipated to return during the fourth quarter of the year to conduct the validation process and present the final report.

Given the global nature of the cruise industry, where destinations like Seychelles have limited bargaining power, UNECA is working on strategies to improve the financial outcomes for Seychelles.

Source: Voyages Afriq.

How Dubai is leveraging technology to enhance guest experiences

Dubai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and embracing innovation has been a key factor behind its transformation into a city at the forefront of the global economy.

The city’s long-term wider approach to leveraging the latest advancements not only enhances the experience for residents and visitors but also boosts the economy by attracting more businesses and investors.

Recognizing the importance of leveraging technology to shape the future of travel and hospitality, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has consistently spearheaded initiatives to raise the bar across multiple sectors, while strategies are in place to improve tourism services with new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR).

DET has also nurtured innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability to create new pathways for growth, aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure.

Proactively adapting its offering to align with emerging global trends, and to cater to the diverse demands of residents and international travellers, the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors are utilising innovation to ensure that Dubai continues to elevate standards across the tourism ecosystem – from streamlined visa processes and airport smart gates to hotel check-in via smartphone apps and digital platforms showcasing the best of Dubai’s offerings.

This dynamic approach, combined with Dubai’s commitment to excellence and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors, has been the catalyst for rapid change across the emirate, with world-class infrastructure and exceptional service at all touchpoints contributing towards enhancing the guest experience.

With global travellers eager for novel experiences, this fusion of innovation allows tourists to seamlessly connect with both traditional and modern elements of the emirate’s diverse offering and has contributed towards further highlighting the emirate’s position as a must-visit destination. Dubai’s growing popularity is evident in the steady growth in visitors – from January to June 2024,  Dubai welcomed 9.31 million international visitors, an increase of 9 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Inspired by the visionary leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and guided by the objectives of the D33 Agenda, Dubai is committed to advancing with distinctive world-class infrastructure, experiences, and attractions. Dubai’s unwavering dedication to exceeding expectations is demonstrated through the seamless integration of technology into our industry.

This unique synergy of innovation and technological excellence is a testament to our strong commitment to progress and is instrumental in making Dubai the best city to visit, live and work in, aligned with the goals of the D33 Agenda. The emirate continues collaborating with key stakeholders and global partners to spearhead technology-driven tourism, ensuring a future where innovation enriches every visitor’s experience.”

Source:  Gulf Business.

Press Release -Kenya Airways Posts First Half-Year Profit of Kshs 513 million.

August 19, 2024

Kenya Airways PLC has announced a significant milestone in its journey towards profitability, marking the first time the airline has reported a profit after tax since 2013.

For the first half of the financial year ending June 30, 2024, the airline achieved a profit after tax of Kshs 513 million, from the Kshs 21.7 billion loss reported in the similar previous period.

The airline attributes the growth to its strategic turnaround plan, Project Kifaru, which emphasises customer obsession, operational excellence, financial discipline, innovation, and sustainability. 

“The impressive performance reaffirms the operational viability of our business and underscores the effectiveness of the collective efforts by our board, management, and staff,” said Kenya Airways Chairman, Michael Joseph.

He added: “This achievement underscores the strength and resilience of Kenya Airways as we move forward on our path to sustained profitability.”

Operating and Financial Highlights:

Passenger Growth: Kenya Airways experienced a 10% increase in passenger numbers, totaling 2.54 million.

Capacity Expansion: The airline’s capacity, measured in Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs), increased by 16% to 7.991 billion ASKs, while Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPKs) improved by 14%.

Revenue Surge: The airline’s total revenue grew by 22% to Kshs 91 billion, driven by higher passenger numbers.

Cost Management: Despite the expansion, operating costs rose by 22%, aligning with the growth in capacity. However, overheads were reduced by 22%, reflecting Kenya Airways’ continued commitment to cost management and operational efficiency.

Profitability: The airline’s profit after tax saw a remarkable 102% improvement, highlighting the success of the ongoing recovery strategy.

Joseph said the airline remains focused on completing its capital restructuring plan to reduce financial leverage and enhance liquidity, thus ensuring a strong foundation for long-term growth and stability. 

“Kenya Airways is committed to maintaining this positive momentum, building on the success of the first half of 2024 as we continue to strive for excellence in the aviation industry,” concluded Joseph.

Commenting on the improved financial performance, Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways, welcomed the positive performance ad observed, “Our financial results are a clear indication that our strategic initiatives are delivering the desired outcomes. We have focused on strengthening our core operations, enhancing our customer service, and exploring new avenues for growth. This performance positions us in good stead to navigate the challenges of the aviation industry and prepare for future growth.”

As Kenya Airways continues to implement its strategic priorities, Kilavuka remained optimistic that the airlines’ commitment and dedication to driving sustainable growth, creating value for stakeholders, and delivering world-class service to its customers is already yielding desired results.

“Our commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and innovation remains strong as we continue to build a stronger and more resilient airline,” said Kilavuka.

Source: Corporate Kenya Airways.

INTRODUCING THE ASANTE LOUNGE, DESIGNED FOR RELAXATION AND COMFORT

Press Release- Ethiopian Airlines Signs a Contract with Dar Al-Handasah to Develop a Mega Airport City

Addis Ababa, 12 August 2024

Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s leading airline, has signed a technical advisory and consultancy contract with Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners), a partner with the world-renowned signature architects Zaha Hadid Architects, to embark on the design and supervision of a Mega Airport City at Abusera in Bishoftu city.

This state-of-the-art airport city, located just 40km from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, is poised to revolutionize air travel in Ethiopia. Upon completion, the new airport is projected to have the capacity to serve 110 million passengers each year, which is four times the current capacity of Bole International Airport.

Ethiopian Airlines’ Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, announced the Mega Airport City project, highlighting its role in establishing Ethiopia as a global aviation hub. “The project will not only enhance connectivity but also drive economic growth and prioritize environmentally responsible practices in our country and beyond, reflecting the airline’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. With its exceptional capacity and world-class facilities, this new airport promises to elevate African aviation and strengthen partnerships, marking a significant advancement for the region’s air travel infrastructure”.

Dar’s Director of Operations in Ethiopia Tariq Al-Qanni stated, “We are privileged to be collaborating with Ethiopian Airlines on this visionary new airport, which will provide vital global air connectivity, accelerate economic growth in Ethiopia, and elevate Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s most strategic and most competitive aviation group.”

In its first phase, scheduled to be completed in 2029, the contract is set to position Ethiopia as the leading global gateway to Africa with a capacity of handling 60 million passengers, almost three times the number of passengers registered in Africa’s busiest airport in 2022, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport; ultimately, the new airport’s capacity will serve 110 million passengers a year, quadrupling the capacity of Bole International Airport.

The Mega Airport City will feature a 1.1 million sqm terminal including passenger facilities, 126,190 sqm of airline support facilities, and over 100,000 sqm of cargo and airport support facilities. It will also include an associated airfield and other essential airport infrastructure.

The new airport is positioned at a lower elevation compared to the current primary hub, Addis Ababa, situated at one of the world’s most elevated locations, presenting unique operational challenges for aircraft. The architectural team will incorporate elements of Ethiopian heritage to establish a new emblematic structure for the nation – a people-centric, intuitive airport characterized by sustainability, resilience, and future-readiness. Ethiopian Airlines remains steadfast in its commitment to elevating customer experience to unprecedented heights, ensuring every journey is marked by excellence and innovation.

 About Ethiopian

Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is one of the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-eight years of successful operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900 and De Havilland Q400.

Ethiopian is also pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian has been champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years among others. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.

 About Dar

Dar provides design, planning, engineering, and management services for buildings, cities, transportation, and civil infrastructure projects.Dar, TYLin, and Landrum & Brown belong to Sidara, a global collaborative of industry-leading firms have advised 23 of the top 30 global airports and delivered projects in over 300 airports, including Ethiopia’s Bole International Airport as well as strategic global hubs such as Dubai International Airport. Zaha Hadid Architects brings award-winning capabilities and a global track record of iconic airport projects, while Pascall+Watson Architects has successfully completed more than 2,000 aviation projects across 70 airports in 35 countries.

For more at: www.ethiopianairlines.com

https://corporate.ethiopianairlines.com/Press-release-open-page/ethiopian-airlines-signs-a-contract-with-dar-al-handasah-to-develop-a-mega-airport-city

Contact us on nbores@ethiopianairlines.com/nbocto@ethiopianairlines.com

Source: Corporate Ethiopian Airlines.