Ethiopian Airlines Launches Direct Addis Ababa–Hanoi Route

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline by network coverage, officially launched a new direct air route connecting Addis Ababa and Hanoi, marking a significant milestone in aviation and economic ties between Ethiopia and Vietnam. The inaugural ceremony was held in Hanoi on the evening of July 11, accompanied by the signing of a series of strategic cooperation agreements with prominent Vietnamese partners.

As part of the occasion, Ethiopian Airlines entered into memoranda of understanding (MoU) with Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Air, Vietnam Post (VNPost), and Deks Air Vietnam, reinforcing its commitment to long-term collaboration and operational expansion in Southeast Asia.

Under the new agreements, Deks Air Vietnam was appointed as the General Sales and Services Agent (GSSA) of Ethiopian Airlines in Vietnam. As a subsidiary of a global aviation group with five decades of experience and representation in eight countries, Deks Air currently serves 17 international airlines across passenger and cargo operations. The appointment underscores Deks Air’s growing role in facilitating international air services in Vietnam and aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ ambitious global outreach.

In the cargo segment, Pacific Air has been designated as Ethiopian Airlines’ General Sales Agent for Cargo (GSA Cargo) in Vietnam. Pacific Air is recognized as a leading freight agency in the country, known for handling a broad spectrum of cargo types, from general commercial goods to specialized freight.

The launch of the new Addis Ababa–Hanoi route, which commenced on July 10, 2025, includes four weekly flights and is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy to enhance connectivity in the Southeast Asian region. The route is expected to significantly boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Ethiopia and Vietnam, offering passengers convenient access to Ethiopian Airlines’ expansive global network spanning Africa, Europe, and the Americas via its main hub in Addis Ababa.

Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, emphasized that the new route symbolizes the airline’s commitment to expanding its presence in Southeast Asia while fostering robust bilateral relations with Vietnam. He also reiterated the airline’s dedication to strengthening partnerships and contributing to regional economic development.

With nearly 80 years of successful operations, Ethiopian Airlines is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most accomplished carriers. The airline serves over 160 destinations across five continents with a modern fleet comprising Boeing 737, 777, and 787 aircraft, Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 models, and De Havilland Q400 turboprops. Its continued investment in advanced aviation technology reflects its focus on passenger comfort and environmental sustainability.

Under its long-term “Vision 2035” strategy, Ethiopian Airlines aims to position itself among the world’s top 20 global airline groups, with expanded operations supported by multiple hubs in Togo, Malawi, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.