Ethiopian Airlines, one of the fastest-growing airline brands globally, is set to expand its European network with the introduction of a new passenger flight service to Porto, Portugal. The new route will commence on July 2, 2025, and will feature a single stopover in Madrid, Spain. This development comes as part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity for travellers and expand its reach across Europe, making it easier for passengers to access key destinations.
The new service between Addis Ababa and Porto will operate four times a week, providing passengers with more travel options while promoting seamless connections between Africa and Europe. Ethiopian Airlines, also the largest airline in Africa, continues to prioritise expanding its network, and this new route reflects the airline’s commitment to offering convenient and efficient travel alternatives to both leisure and business travellers. The airline’s modern fleet, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, will be used for these operations, ensuring a high level of comfort and service for all passengers.
The flight schedule for the new service is as follows:
• Flight ET740: This flight will depart from Addis Ababa on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 23:10, arriving in Madrid at 05:55 the next day. From Madrid, the flight will continue to Porto, departing at 06:55 and arriving at 07:15.
• Flight ET741: Returning from Porto, this flight will depart on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 19:55, arriving in Madrid at 21:10. After a brief stopover in Madrid, it will depart at 23:10, arriving in Addis Ababa at 07:25 the next day.
This new service offers more options for passengers traveling from Africa to Portugal, as well as those connecting through Spain. Ethiopian Airlines has already established codeshare flights to Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, through various European cities such as London, Milan, and others. However, this direct service to Porto further strengthens the airline’s position in Europe and enhances travel options for passengers traveling within the region.
Ato Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, expressed excitement over the new service, saying: “We are thrilled to expand our network to Porto, Portugal, a vibrant city with rich cultural heritage and economic significance. This new route underscores our commitment to providing our passengers with more travel options and seamless connectivity. We look forward to welcoming our passengers on board and offering them the exceptional service that Ethiopian Airlines is known for.”
Ethiopian Airlines has been a leader in connecting Africa to the rest of the world, with approximately 140 weekly passenger flights across Europe to 22 destinations. The addition of the Porto service will further solidify the airline’s presence in the European market, while also fostering stronger ties between Europe and Africa. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines currently serves 8 cargo destinations in Europe, ensuring a diverse range of services for both passengers and freight.
The introduction of the Porto route reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic expansion plan to increase its European footprint and offer passengers more choice and convenience. By continuing to add new destinations and improve connectivity across continents, the airline is reinforcing its commitment to global travel excellence.
For travellers looking to explore Portugal or connect to other European destinations, this new flight service offers an exciting opportunity to experience the quality and comfort of Ethiopian Airlines. The airline’s growth and continued dedication to seamless travel demonstrate why it remains one of Africa’s most trusted and successful airline brands.
