Ethiopian and SITA team up to improve passenger experience as Africa’s air travel booms

September 16, 2025 in Communications, Companies, Travel & Tourism by Editor

Mr. Laike Tafesse – SITA Vice President Sub-Saharan Africa Region, Mr. Samson Arega – Group Vice President Customer Experience, Ethiopian Airlines Mr. Selim Bouri – President MEA, SITA Mr. Esayas Gizaw – Manager Sub-Saharan Africa Region, SITA

Ethiopian Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global aviation IT provider SITA to co-develop next-generation passenger and operational solutions, a move designed to meet Africa’s surging air travel demand and enhance the continent’s competitiveness in global aviation.

The partnership will tap into startups, technology providers, accelerators, and industry partners to pilot innovations aimed at making travel smarter, faster, and more seamless. Ethiopian Airlines expects the collaboration to strengthen operational efficiency and deliver smoother journeys for millions of passengers transiting through Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport – now ranked among Africa’s busiest hubs.

“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.”

With travellers increasingly expecting digital-first services, African carriers face mounting pressure to adopt smart technologies that cut queues, optimize scheduling, and enhance the end-to-end travel experience.

“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 at SITA. “Hubs like Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport need to provide a frictionless passenger journey so airlines can optimize flight schedules and deliver smooth, memorable trips. This collaboration is about driving the innovation needed to meet these demands and help shape the future of African aviation.”