Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest and most profitable carrier, has announced a record-breaking annual revenue of over $7.6 billion for the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year. The announcement was made by Group CEO Ato Mesfin Tase, who attributed the achievement to strong demand for the airline’s services and continued expansion into new markets.

According to the CEO, the revenue was primarily generated from passenger and cargo services, underscoring the airline’s strategic focus on growing both commercial and freight operations. Over the fiscal year, the airline transported more than 19 million passengers, marking a significant rise in demand despite multiple global disruptions in the aviation sector.

In line with its ambitious Vision 2025 growth strategy, Ethiopian Airlines added 13 new aircraft to its fleet and launched six new international destinations, further expanding its global reach. These developments reinforced its position as a key aviation hub connecting Africa with the rest of the world.

Ato Mesfin acknowledged that the fiscal year was not without its challenges. “The global airline industry faced a number of disruptions, particularly due to conflicts and instability in various countries, which affected flight schedules and operations,” he said. “Despite these headwinds, Ethiopian Airlines remained resilient and continued to provide safe, reliable, and efficient service.”

The airline’s strong performance reflects its ongoing investments in fleet modernization, digital systems, customer service, and regional partnerships. As it continues to expand, Ethiopian Airlines remains a symbol of national pride and a critical driver of Ethiopia’s economic integration with global markets.