To address aviation challenges head-on, Ethiopian Airlines and SITA, the air transport industry’s tech engine, signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-develop innovative solutions that strengthen the airline’s operations and enhance the passenger experience. 

SITA is a multinational information technology company providing IT and telecommunication services to the air transport industry.

 The collaboration will tap into startups, technology providers, business accelerators, and industry partners to identify key challenges and create fresh, forward-looking solutions tailored to the airline’s needs.

With air travel demand across Africa skyrocketing and passenger expectations shifting fast in a digital-first world, airlines face mounting pressure to deliver smoother, more efficient journeys while managing increasingly busy operations. At the same time, destinations like Ethiopia are rapidly emerging as hubs for tourism, investment, and trade, raising the stakes for national carriers to leave a lasting positive impression on travellers.

“Ethiopia is realising its ambition to become a sophisticated, dynamic destination for investment, trade, and tourism. Ethiopian Airlines plays a central role in making that vision a reality,” said Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO. “Creating the best first and last impressions for business and leisure travellers is crucial, and this partnership puts us in the best position to deliver exceptional experiences while taking full advantage of the opportunities ahead.”

 “Africa is experiencing unprecedented growth in air travel just as passengers’ expectations are being reshaped by rapid advances in digital technology,” said Selim Bouri, President, Middle East & Africa, SITA. “Hubs like Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport need to provide a frictionless passenger journey so airlines can optimise flight schedules and deliver smooth, memorable trips. This collaboration between Ethiopian Airlines and SITA is all about driving the innovation needed to meet these demands and help shape the future of African aviation.”