Ethiopian Airlines half-year revenue up 14% from previous year

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s biggest commercial carrier, said on Tuesday that its half-year revenue rose 14% from the previous year, helped by the introduction of new destinations, more flights and seven new aircraft. Chief Executive Mesfin Tasew told a press conference that the state-owned airline recorded $4.4 billion in revenue in the first six months of its financial year, which began on July 8. Ethiopian Airlines has a fleet of about 150 aircraft.

Last month, it announced an order with Boeing BA.N for nine 787 Dreamliner jets amid growing demand for long-haul travel. The company also officially started construction of a $12.5 billion airport last month that officials say will be Africa’s largest when completed in 2030.