Addressing the 1st Ethiopian Aviation Forum, Sime underscored that the intra-African connectivity is a catalyst for economic integration. He referred to the expansion to many hubs by Ethiopian Airlines, the country’s flag carrier and Africa’s largest airliner, which exemplifies this Pan-African commitment.

The minister urged African nations to free up airspace, reduce barriers to cross-border travel, harmonize regulations, and foster a competitive and affordable air transport market.

“By opening the skies, we open the doors to prosperity,” Sime stated as he encouraged the continent to invest in regional routes and unlock trade, tourism, and investment potential.

Ethiopian Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa, in turn, affirmed that the country’s national reform marked a new era for the sector by turning it the top priority to drive economic growth.

The forum was organized by Ethiopian Airlines, Normanas Aerospace, and its partner GFOX Aviation under the theme “Propelling Global Aviation, Africa Connects the World”. It is considered the most relevant enterprise event of the sector in the region.

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