By Sumaila Ogbaje
Ethiopian Airlines has been named the African Airline of the year 2016, in recognition of its rapid growth, increased profitability and outstanding contribution to aviation development in Africa.
The airline on Monday in Abuja said that the award was announced at the 26th Annual Air Finance Africa Conference and Exhibition held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Mr Meseret Bitew, Acting Chief Financial Officer, Ethiopian Airlines, said that the airline was pleased to win the award for the second time in a row.
Bitew added that the feat was a testimony of the airlines’ commitment to serve the people of Africa.
“The commendable success of Ethiopian Airlines is attributed to the visionary leadership of Ethiopian management and the hard work of thousands of Ethiopian employees who work hard around the clock.
“We shall continue to play vital roles in connecting African countries with their major trading partners around the world and realise an economically liberal Africa.”
Mr Nick Fadugba, Chief Executive Officer of African Aviation said , “in the past 12 months, Ethiopian Airlines has further expanded its route network and modernised its fleet.
“It also inaugurated three new aircraft maintenance hangars as well as a new world-class in-flight catering facility and has strengthened its airline joint ventures in Africa.
“In addition, Ethiopian Airlines has achieved a record financial turnover and profitability in spite of various industry challenges.
“Currently, the airline is well on track to exceed the goals of its Vision 2025 Strategy.”
Ethiopian airline is a multi-award winning airline which includes Airline of the Year Award, for the fifth consecutive year, by African Airlines Association (AFRAA).
It also won the SkyTrax World Airline Award for Best Airline Staff in Africa, Best African Cargo Airline of the Year Award and Passenger Choice Award for Best Airline in Africa.
