Ethiopia’s civil aviation authority said it collected more than 3.3 billion birr in air navigation charges during the 2024/25 fiscal year, a notable increase from the previous year.

Endale Assefa, head of Public Relations and Communications at the authority, explained that these fees are paid by aircraft entering Ethiopian airspace, covering the use of airways across the country. The revenue comes from international flights passing through Ethiopian air corridors.

The figure marks a notable increase from the 2 billion birr collected in the 2023/24 fiscal year. According to Ato Endale, this rise is driven by the growing volume of air traffic and increased demand for aviation services in the region.

Despite the growth, Ethiopia’s air navigation fees remain relatively low compared to neighboring African countries, some of which charge over $1,000 for similar services.

The civil aviation authority emphasized ongoing efforts to transform the aviation sector as a key driver of economic growth across agriculture, tourism, and industry. Infrastructure projects, including airport and helicopter facilities built to international standards, aim to improve connectivity between regional cities and tourist destinations such as Lalibela and Chebera Churchura National Park.