Ethiopian Airlines Deepens European Expansion with New Lyon Passenger Route
Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its European operations with the launch of a new passenger service to Lyon, France, a move expected to strengthen air connectivity between Africa and Europe while boosting trade, tourism and investment opportunities.
The airline announced that the new service, which commenced on 2 July 2026, will operate three times a week, making Lyon the latest addition to its steadily growing international route network.
The new destination provides passengers with convenient access to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive global network through its Addis Ababa hub, linking France with cities across Africa, the Middle East, Asia and other regions.
The carrier said the launch forms part of its broader strategy to expand its global footprint and provide travellers with more seamless travel options while reinforcing Addis Ababa’s position as one of Africa’s leading aviation hubs.
According to the airline, the introduction of flights to Lyon is expected to enhance mobility for business executives, tourists, students and members of the African diaspora travelling between France and numerous destinations served by Ethiopian Airlines.
Speaking on the inauguration of the route, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew, described the new service as another important milestone in the airline’s long-term expansion plans.
He expressed satisfaction over the addition of Lyon to the airline’s French network, noting that the country has remained one of Ethiopian Airlines’ most important European markets for many years.
“We are truly delighted to connect our passengers to an additional gateway in France with our new flights to Lyon,” Tasew said.
He recalled that Ethiopian Airlines has maintained strong operations to Paris and Marseille for decades, successfully linking both French cities to numerous destinations across Africa through its Addis Ababa hub.
According to him, the commencement of flights to Lyon further strengthens those enduring ties by offering passengers greater flexibility, improved connectivity and a wider range of travel options throughout the airline’s extensive international network.
With Lyon joining its route map, Ethiopian Airlines now serves three major French cities – Paris, Marseille and Lyon – reflecting the airline’s continued confidence in the French aviation market and growing demand for travel between France and Africa.
Industry observers believe the new route will facilitate stronger commercial relations by making it easier for businesses, investors and entrepreneurs to travel between France and emerging African markets.
The service is also expected to support tourism and cultural exchanges by providing faster and more convenient travel connections.
The latest expansion comes as Ethiopian Airlines continues to pursue an aggressive network growth strategy, introducing new destinations and increasing frequencies on existing routes in response to rising global passenger demand.
Recognised as Africa’s largest and one of its most successful airlines, Ethiopian Airlines has built an extensive network spanning Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia and the Middle East.
Through its Addis Ababa hub, the carrier offers passengers efficient onward connections to hundreds of destinations, reinforcing its role as a key gateway to the African continent.
The airline reaffirmed that it remains committed to connecting Africa with the rest of the world through reliable services, expanded route networks and world-class customer experience.
It added that the launch of the Lyon route demonstrates its determination to continue investing in strategic markets while supporting economic growth, tourism and stronger international partnerships.
