GHIAL announces its first direct flight to Africa

Ethiopian Airlines begins non-stop service from Hyderabad to Addis Ababa, boosting global connectivity
 

GMR AERO –led consortium GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL) opened a new chapter in air travel by announcing the launch of new direct flight services from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad - the fastest growing Metro airport in India; to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa. The inaugural flight on 17th June 2025 successfully departed for Addis Ababa after a celebratory ceremony attended by senior officials from GHIAL, key officials from Ethiopian Airlines and other airport stakeholders. The service, operated by Ethiopian Airlines—Africa’s largest and most prominent airline will further strengthen Hyderabad’s position as a growing global aviation hub.

 This new route marks a significant milestone in expanding the airport’s international connectivity, offering a crucial air link between South India and the African continent. With THREE weekly evening departures from Hyderabad, passengers can look forward to a seamless and comfortable journey of 6 hours and 25 minutes. Schedule of the new flight services are as follows:

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital, is not only a cultural and historical epicenter but also an emerging hub for business and diplomacy in Africa. This direct connection is expected to facilitate greater opportunities for business, leisure, and tourism travelers, while also opening new doors for trade and investment between India and Africa.

India continues to be a top destination for medical tourism from African countries such as Ethiopia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Cameroon, and Kenya, thanks to its world-class healthcare at affordable costs, skilled doctors, and advanced treatment options in cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and fertility. The launch of the direct flight services by Ethiopian Airlines will further strengthen this vital healthcare corridor, offering patients and families greater access, shorter travel times, and enhanced convenience—supported by India's medical visa framework and English-speaking care teams.

For business travelers, the flight offers quick access to one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. For leisure and cultural tourists, it presents a gateway to Ethiopia’s rich heritage, landscapes, and unique experiences. Additionally, the route strengthens people-to-people ties and serves the Indian diaspora in Africa.

Expressing his excitement on the new addition Mr. Pradeep Panicker, CEO, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd., said, “We are delighted to welcome Ethiopian Airlines passenger services to Hyderabad. This new direct route to Addis Ababa reinforces our commitment to connecting Hyderabad with key international destinations. Africa is an emerging market with increasing strategic importance, and this flight will serve as a critical bridge for commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two regions. We are confident that this new service will be well-received by passengers looking for convenient and efficient connectivity to Africa."

Apart from being a cost-effective transit hub and cargo gateway, Addis Ababa offers vital connectivity from Hyderabad to over 125 global destinations, especially across Africa, Europe, and the Americas which makes it key to Hyderabad’s growing global reach.

This development is a testament to GHIAL’s continued efforts to enhance passenger convenience and diversify its international network, positioning RGIA as a preferred choice for global travelers. As a single-roof integrated terminal, the Hyderabad Airport proudly serves as the best transfer gateway between South East Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.