Air Algérie’s General Manager Unveils Historic Air Link Between Algeria and Ethiopia, Paving the Way for Stronger Diplomatic and Economic Relations
BY: Hana Saada
Algiers, September 22, 2023 – In a historic moment that signals a new era of diplomatic cooperation and economic collaboration, Air Algérie inaugurated a direct air link connecting Algiers to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city. The inaugural flight, which took to the skies on Thursday, September 21, 2023, witnessed the presence of Algeria’s Minister of Transport, Youcef Chorfa, and the Ethiopian Ambassador to Algiers, Mr. Nabiate Guetasho.
This strategic endeavor bears significant weight, as highlighted by Yacine Benslimane, the General Manager of Algeria’s national carrier, Air Algérie. Mr. Benslimane expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Today marks my first step onto Ethiopian soil, a dream shared by many Algerians, as Ethiopia stands as one of the cradles of humanity. I feel immensely fortunate to not only visit this beautiful country and engage with our brothers and sisters but also to inaugurate the inaugural air link between Algiers and Addis Ababa. This moment fills me with pride and happiness. This flight will serve the interests of both our nations, bolstering our economies and those of our respective sub-regions.
We are committed to strengthening the bonds between our two countries. Today, our passengers and businessmen gain the freedom to travel easily and transport their goods between our nations and beyond. People in the sub-regions will now have newfound routes to access our two vibrant capitals. None of this would have been possible without the steadfast support of our President, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and his government, particularly the Ministry of Transport, under the leadership of Minister Youcef Chourfa, who graces us with his presence here today. This new international connection, the 46th for Air Algérie and the 9th within Africa, is set to commence operation on December 15th, featuring two weekly frequencies – departing from Algiers every Monday and Friday, and from Addis Ababa every Tuesday and Saturday. Ticket sales for this remarkable flight will open on September 23rd. Our heartfelt thanks go to the Ethiopian authorities, and with that, I declare this flight officially open.”
This momentous occasion marks a pivotal step in fostering stronger ties between Algeria and Ethiopia. It not only facilitates the movement of people and goods but also opens doors for enhanced cultural exchange and economic partnerships between the two nations. The direct air route will undoubtedly serve as a bridge for cooperation in various sectors, including trade, tourism, and education, further solidifying the diplomatic relations between Algeria and Ethiopia.
The launch of this direct air link is also expected to have a positive impact on the regional landscape. It provides a more efficient and convenient travel option for passengers and businesses across North and East Africa. Algiers and Addis Ababa, both influential hubs in their respective regions, will now be more accessible to one another and the world.
