Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, has been honoured with the prestigious Global Recognition and Appreciation Award at the First International Post-COVID Conference in Toronto.
This accolade acknowledges the airline’s pivotal role in distributing emergency supplies across Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the delivery of essential medical supplies and saving countless lives.
The conference, co-hosted by Livelihood Development International Initiatives (LDII) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), among other partners, aimed to establish a unified response to future global pandemics.
Ethiopian Airlines’ GCEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, expressed his gratitude while receiving the award, said, “We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition for our significant contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic”.
“This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team members, the airline community, and stakeholders who worked tirelessly with us during those challenging times,” said Mr. Tasew.
He emphasized the airline’s adaptability and unwavering commitment, stating, “Every flight carried more than just supplies; it carried hope and life. We remain committed to using our global network and expertise to empower communities.”
Ethiopian Airlines played a crucial role by reconfiguring approximately 25 passenger aircraft into dedicated cargo freighters. The airline conducted over 470 charter repatriation flights, reuniting more than 63,000 citizens with their families.
In collaboration with governmental entities, non-profit organizations, and international agencies, the airline facilitated the transportation of millions of tons of personal protective equipment, medical apparatus, vaccines, and other essential supplies across Africa and beyond.
With a 78-year history, Ethiopian Airlines has demonstrated remarkable adaptability, agility, and resilience.
Throughout the pandemic, it was one of the few airlines that continued operations, transporting medical supplies, humanitarian aid, and essential personnel globally.
The airline implemented various strategies to weather the crisis, including service diversification, precautionary measures, and responsive management, cementing its legacy as one of the continent’s leading carriers renowned for operational excellence and efficiency.
