Ethiopian airlines announces new flights to Hanoi, Vietnam with 787

The airline currently operates freighter services to Vietnam’s southern commercial hub twice weekly.

On March 18, 2025, Ethiopian Airlines (ET) announced a new four-times-weekly passenger flight connecting Addis Ababa (ADD) to Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN). The service will commence operations on July 10, 2025, strengthening the airline’s presence in Southeast Asia.

Ethiopian Airlines Enhances Global Connectivity

The launch of the Hanoi route will strengthen the limited yet growing direct air connections between Africa and Asia.

Currently, only a handful of carriers operate non-stop flights between the two continents. Out of these, Ethiopian Airlines (ET) leads this expansion alongside Kenya Airways (KQ), EgyptAir (MS), and select Middle Eastern carriers serving as critical bridges.

The African Airline’s Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating-

“We are pleased to expand our presence in Southeast Asia and enhance air connectivity for our customers in the region. This new route will create opportunities for stronger ties and collaborations between Vietnam and our extensive global network. We look forward to bringing our renowned service to Vietnam and further growing our presence in this dynamic market.”

The new route establishes a vital link between Ethiopian Airlines’ Addis Ababa (ADD) hub and Hanoi (HAN). This will serve both business and leisure travellers. This service aims to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Vietnam and Ethiopia. It will also facilitate connections to Ethiopia’s extensive network across Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

Expanding Vietnam Operations

The Hanoi service marks Ethiopian Airlines’ second destination in Vietnam. This complements its existing cargo operations in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), which began in 2016.

The airline currently operates freighter services to Vietnam’s southern commercial hub twice weekly. This passenger expansion follows years of successful cargo operations that have facilitated growing trade between Africa and Vietnam, particularly in electronics, textiles, and agricultural products.

The airline plans to utilize its modern fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners for the Hanoi route. This will offer passengers enhanced comfort on the long-haul journey.

Strengthening Africa-Asia Relations

This development reinforces Ethiopian Airlines’ position as Africa’s most connected carrier and enhances the airline’s global footprint.

The direct link between Africa and Southeast Asia creates more efficient one-stop connections for passengers. It also opens new trade and investment opportunities between Vietnam and African nations.

The expansion establishes Ethiopian Airlines as a key player in the Asia-Africa aviation corridor. This further strengthens its market competitiveness in global air travel.

Vietnamese authorities have welcomed the announcement, citing the potential for increased tourism from African markets and expanded business opportunities for local companies seeking to enter African markets.

The new service is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic vision to expand its network to 140 international destinations by 2026. The focus is the establishment of Addis Ababa as a premier aviation hub connecting Africa to the world.

By Sakshi Jain – Aviation A2Z – March 20, 2025