Ethiopian Airlines Expands Domestic Reach: Three New Airports to Open by April 2026

In the heart of the Horn of Africa, the sky is no longer a limit—it’s a bridge. Ethiopian Airlines, the continent’s leading aviation giant, has officially announced a major leap in its mission to unify the nation. By mid-April 2026, three brand-new domestic airports will open their gates in Negele Borena, Gore Metu, and Debre Markos, transforming the way Ethiopians travel, trade, and connect.

For the residents of these regions, this isn’t just about aviation; it’s about ending the isolation that often comes with rugged terrain and long road journeys. It’s about a flight that takes minutes replacing a drive that takes days.

A New Chapter in Regional Connectivity

The announcement, made on February 18, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for Ethiopia’s transport infrastructure. Starting in mid-April, the airline will commence thrice-weekly passenger services to each of these three destinations.

This expansion brings Ethiopian Airlines’ domestic network to a total of 26 destinations. It follows the successful 2025 opening of the Yabello airport, proving that the carrier is deeply committed to reaching every corner of the country.

“The inauguration of these three new airports represents a major milestone for our nation,” said Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO. “Our mission is to build an inclusive air transport network that empowers communities and unlocks economic opportunities for all.”

Meet the New Destinations

The choice of these three locations is highly strategic, aimed at supporting regional administrative centers and untapped economic zones:

1. Negele Borena: Located in the southern Oromia region, this hub is a vital link for trade and pastoralist communities.
2. Gore Metu: Tucked away in the lush, greenery-rich southwest, an area famous for its coffee production and natural beauty.
3. Debre Markos: A historic city in the Amhara region, serving as a gateway to northern agricultural heartlands.

By providing scheduled flights, Ethiopian Airlines is effectively placing these cities on the global map, allowing business travelers and tourists to bypass the logistical hurdles of the past.

Beyond the Tarmac: Economic and Social Impact

The “ripple effect” of an airport extends far beyond the runway. In Ethiopia, where the landscape is as beautiful as it is challenging, air travel is a catalyst for:

• Tourism Growth: International and domestic tourists can now easily access remote cultural sites and natural wonders that were previously “off the beaten path.”
• Faster Trade: Local businesses can transport high-value goods—like specialty coffee or artisanal crafts—to market in a fraction of the time.
• Emergency Access: Improved runways mean faster medical evacuations and more efficient delivery of essential public services.

This “asset-light” expansion strategy allows the airline to grow quickly while focusing on infrastructure modernization. It aligns perfectly with Vision 2035, the airline’s ambitious roadmap to become one of the top 20 aviation groups in the world.

Navigating Challenges with Innovation

The expansion comes at a time of high performance for the group, which reported a staggering $4.4 billion in revenue for the first half of the fiscal year. However, growing a domestic fleet isn’t without its hurdles.

CEO Mesfin Tasew recently noted that while the reliable De Havilland Q400 turboprops have been the backbone of domestic routes, they are no longer in production. To keep the momentum going, the airline is actively negotiating for new jet aircraft to ensure that regional connectivity remains modern, safe, and efficient.

A Future-Ready Ethiopia

As the ground breaks and the first flights prepare for takeoff this April, the message is clear: Ethiopia is moving forward. From the groundbreaking of the massive Bishoftu International Airport to the opening of these regional strips, the country is cementing its status as the aviation hub of Africa.

For the traveler, this means more choices. For the local resident, it means more opportunity. And for the nation, it means a more unified, accessible future.

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