Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, has launched a new twice-weekly cargo service linking Addis Ababa with Urumqi Diwopu International Airport in Western China. The inaugural flight was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute, marking a significant milestone in expanding air freight connectivity between Africa and Asia.

Operating every Monday and Thursday, this route deepens Ethiopian Airlines’ presence in a rapidly growing region of China and strengthens a vital cargo corridor that facilitates faster, more efficient movement of goods between the two continents. The service is expected to unlock broader market access for exporters and importers on both ends, reinforcing the airline’s pivotal role as a global logistics enabler.

Speaking at the launch, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew highlighted the strategic importance of Urumqi as a gateway to Western China. “Our new cargo flight to Urumqi marks a major step forward in solidifying air trade links between Africa and Asia. This route opens fresh opportunities for cross-border commerce and supply chain efficiency, driving economic integration across regions.”

Tasew underscored Ethiopian Airlines’ ongoing commitment to expanding its cargo network with purpose and precision. “With China being one of our key markets, this new service reinforces our long-term partnership and shared vision for sustainable growth. We aim to provide reliable, fast, and seamless logistics solutions that serve as catalysts for continental and intercontinental development.”

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates more than 190 weekly flights to 27 Asian destinations, including 83 flights to 11 cities across China. Its modern fleet and advanced temperature-controlled, technology-enabled cargo infrastructure allow the airline to transport nearly 1 million tons of freight annually across a global network of over 140 destinations.