Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest aviation group, has announced it will begin new passenger services to Lyon, France, starting July 2, 2026.

The new thrice-weekly flight will be operated using the ultra-modern Airbus A350-900. Lyon marks the airline’s third gateway in France, complementing its existing routes to Paris and Marseille and further solidifying its long-standing presence in the country.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, noted that the new route is designed to enhance the "bridge" between Africa and Europe. By connecting the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region—a major French economic hub—to Ethiopian’s vast network of over 65 African destinations, the airline aims to boost tourism, trade, and diplomatic ties.

The addition of Lyon is part of Ethiopian’s "Vision 2035" strategy, which focuses on expanding its global footprint and maintaining its position as a leading competitive airline. This expansion offers travelers more flexibility and seamless access to both the heart of France and the wider African continent.