Ethiopian Airlines Launched New Flights to Mauritius From Addis Ababa

On June 1, 2026, Ethiopian Airlines announced the launch of a new direct route to a destination in the Indian Ocean, effective July 12, 2026. Ethiopian Airlines is currently the largest operating airline in Africa, and will offer nonstop flights to Port Louis, Mauritius, three times a week. The airline previously served Mauritius via connecting flights with codeshare and interline partners via regional hubs including Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Antananarivo. With this new flight route, passengers can enjoy greater comfort and a more convenient travel experience. Moreover, this new Ethiopian Airlines route will significantly cut the travel time and offer better connections across the region.  

Mauritius is one of the most sought-after island nations in Southeast Africa, attracting tourists from around the world. Ethiopian Airlines sees this as an opportunity to boost the travel and tourism economy for both countries, gradually aiding faster growth and trade. With this new nonstop service, Ethiopian Airlines can stand out as a new market leader in the African aviation industry by making air travel more seamless and time-efficient. 

Why is this new route important for Ethiopian Airlines?

The new flight route between Addis Ababa and Mauritius is of critical importance, as it connects two prominent economies within the African region. It's part of Ethiopian Airlines' business strategy, which not only enhances tourism in Mauritius but also establishes new milestones for the carrier. Ethiopian Airlines routes to 150+ destinations worldwide via its hub in Addis Ababa, and with this new route, the airline is set to bolster its position in the African aviation market.   

 Mr. Mesfin Tasew, the CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, said, "We are delighted to launch this direct flight service to Mauritius, making it easier for Africans and other international tourists to visit this beautiful African island destination, while also enhancing business and trade opportunities." He further noted, "As a leading carrier on the continent, expanding our African network remains one of our top priorities, in line with our vision of strengthening connectivity among African nations and linking the continent more closely with the rest of the world."

Over the past few years, passenger traffic on most Ethiopian Airlines routes has grown, and the airline is viewing this as an upward trend in tourism. On a broader scale, the Mauritian travel and hospitality industry has also shown sustained growth, with tourist numbers from Europe, Asia, and North America increasing.  Statistics show that in the first quarter of 2026, tourist arrivals in Mauritius increased by roughly 6% compared to the previous quarter, and it is estimated that the figure could exceed 100K by the 2026 half-year.  

Ethiopian Airlines Flight Schedule Between Addis Ababa and Mauritius

According to Ethiopian Airlines' latest flight schedule, the new direct flights to Mauritius are scheduled to operate three times a week. The effective days will be Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Passengers can see Ethiopian Airlines flight status on the official site. Here's the flight schedule given for reference:   

Since Ethiopian Airlines will commence new flight operations in July, these direct connections hold more than just an airline expansion strategy. By the end of 2026, the airline anticipates tourism growth that will proportionally increase flight activity and performance. By strengthening infrastructure and leveraging demand synergies, Ethiopian Airlines will be able to deliver profits to its stakeholders and customers by making air travel more accessible, competitive, and dynamic.