Ethiopian Airlines is set to operate a three-times-weekly service from Gatwick to Addis Ababa this November.
The new route will launch on November 21 and be operated by A350-900 aircraft.
This will mark Gatwick’s first direct flight to the Ethiopian capital since 2006. The airport now offers more than 80 per cent of its pre-Covid long-haul routes, with 50 long-haul services on offer.
Jonathan Pollard, CCO of London Gatwick, said:
“Returning to 50 long-haul routes is a milestone moment for London Gatwick. While we’re delighted to offer passengers such an expansive range of short-haul routes across Europe, we’re also proud to provide connections to an increasing range of destinations around the world.
“These services are vital not only for offering people across London and the South East an excellent choice of holiday locations, or for visiting family and friends, but also for supporting local and regional businesses. Whether that’s outbound trade or inbound tourism, growing London Gatwick’s long-haul network is crucial for economic opportunities across the region.
“We look forward to welcoming Ethiopian Airlines to London Gatwick. This is the latest in a number of carriers looking to operate long-haul routes from Gatwick, which further highlights the strong demand for slots at our airport.”
The flag carrier operates an existing daily service from London Heathrow, which we reviewed in 2019, as well as a five-times-weekly service between Manchester and Addis Ababa which routes via Geneva.
Last year the airline opened a five-star hotel at Addis Ababa Bole International airport:
Ethiopian Airlines opens hotel at Addis Ababa airport