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Critics question security and procedural lapses as airline vows corrective action
Addis Ababa – Ethiopian Airlines is facing mounting criticism following the circulation of a social media video that showed a birthday celebration taking place aboard one of its aircraft while it was parked for maintenance. The incident, which occurred without official approval, has raised concerns about security, procedural oversight, and the airline’s internal controls.
The viral video showcased an extravagant birthday setup inside the aircraft, complete with floral decorations, a fashion model roaming freely in the compound, and a celebratory atmosphere that appeared far removed from the rigorous security measures expected at an international airline’s facility. The footage immediately drew backlash, with many questioning how such an event could take place within the airline’s restricted premises without prior approval.
In an official statement, Ethiopian Airlines distanced itself from the celebration, asserting that it had not authorized the event. “We are currently investigating the matter, and corrective action will be taken on those who organized this event without following the company-approved procedure,” the airline stated. Furthermore, the airline clarified that it had not received any payment or entered into any contractual agreement with the individuals involved.
However, critics argue that this response does little to address the glaring security lapses. The fact that a private individual was able to stage a high-profile event involving decorations and a professional photoshoot inside an aircraft raises serious concerns about Ethiopian Airlines’ ability to enforce its protocols. Aviation analysts note that an airline’s maintenance hangar is a high-security zone where unauthorized access should be nearly impossible.
“The bigger question is how this was allowed to happen in the first place,” said an aviation security expert based in Addis Ababa. “Flowers, decorations, and a model roaming around inside a restricted aircraft should have been flagged immediately. This points to a deeper issue of oversight.”
This incident is particularly damaging for Ethiopian Airlines, a carrier that has long prided itself on its reputation as Africa’s leading airline. In an industry where safety and security are paramount, any perceived lapse can have significant repercussions.
Public reaction has been swift, with many expressing concerns over the airline’s ability to uphold strict regulations. Some social media users speculated whether internal staff were involved in organizing the event, while others called for stricter access control measures at maintenance facilities.
Ethiopian Airlines has promised to take “necessary steps to prevent such occurrences in the future” and reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. However, the airline now faces the challenge of regaining public trust while ensuring that security and operational integrity are not compromised again.
As investigations continue, industry observers will be closely watching how Ethiopian Airlines addresses the fallout from this controversy and whether tangible reforms will follow to prevent similar breaches.
Unprofessionalizem was already growing in the entire premises. Sadly, the fall is well under way but seems no body is witnessing it until such social media virtuals.