Ethiopia plans to expand its international flight network beyond the capital, with a new initiative set to divert air traffic from Bole International Airport to regional hubs. The government's plan, which is slated for implementation in the 2018 Ethiopian calendar year, was a central point of discussion at a recent meeting between transport officials and private aviation companies.

The airports in Mekelle, Bahir Dar, and Dire Dawa have been identified as capable of handling international air traffic. By shifting some of the flights from Addis Ababa, officials aim to alleviate pressure on the capital's main airport.

The Minister of Transport and Logistics, Dr. Alemu Sime, noted that the growing air transport sector presents significant opportunities for private providers, encouraging them to take a more active role.

In addition to expanding international routes, the government also intends to launch direct flights between regional cities, eliminating the need for passengers to travel to Addis Ababa for connections. This is part of a broader strategy to improve air connectivity across the country.

Private aviation companies, responding to the new opportunities, expressed their commitment to enhancing their services. They also requested government support in securing access to maintenance centers and bank loans to facilitate their growth in the sector.