Ethiopian Airlines adds Atlanta to its U.S. destinations

The world’s busiest airport is about to get a little busier.

The largest airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines, recently announced that it will begin flying into and out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The service will start on May 16 and run four times a week. The flight will originate in Ethiopia’s capital city of Addis Ababa.

In a statement, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said, “We are truly delighted to open our sixth gateway in North America with the new flight to Atlanta. We have been connecting the U.S. and Africa for 25 years now and the new service will help boost the investment, tourism, diplomatic and socioeconomic bonds between the two regions. As a pan-African carrier, we are committed to further expanding our global network and connecting Africa with the rest of the world. We are also keen to better serve the U.S. by increasing our destinations and flight frequencies.”

“Ethiopian Airlines’ new service to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is yet another win for our city as we continue to develop and expand our air service to Africa,” added Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “As we celebrate the new connection of the rich and dynamic cities of Atlanta and Addis Ababa, we look forward to a strong and successful partnership with our new partners in Ethiopia.”

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari said “As the world’s busiest and most efficient airport, our mission is to deliver excellence while connecting our community to the world. This new partnership with Ethiopian Airlines expands that connectivity and access for our passengers and further solidifies our position as an industry leader. We are thrilled to welcome Ethiopian Airlines to ATL.”

Ethiopian also services Chicago, Washington, D.C., and a pair of New York City area airports. Ethiopian Airlines currently operates at more than 130 international passenger and cargo destinations.