Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading airline and a member of the Star Alliance, has announced significant adjustments to its Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila service for the upcoming Northern winter 2024/25 season. These changes are set to take effect between December 2, 2024, and January 31, 2025, with the frequency of flights on this route temporarily reduced to four weekly flights. Following this period, the airline will further reduce its services to three weekly flights for the remainder of the season.
These adjustments primarily affect travelers between Ethiopia, Hong Kong, and the Philippines, particularly during the peak winter travel season, a period known for heightened demand for international flights, especially around the holiday season. Ethiopian Airlines operates this route with its flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner, renowned for its fuel efficiency, long-range capability, and passenger comfort.
Revised Winter 2024/25 Schedule for Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila Service:
The updated schedule for Ethiopian Airlines’ Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila route during the winter 2024/25 season is as follows:
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ET644:
Departs Addis Ababa (ADD) at 23:25, arriving in Hong Kong (HKG) at 14:25 the next day. The flight then departs Hong Kong at 15:55 and arrives in Manila (MNL) at 18:15. Operated by Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This service will not operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.*
ET645:
Departs Manila (MNL) at 20:25, arriving in Hong Kong (HKG) at 22:25. The flight then departs Hong Kong at 23:55 and arrives in Addis Ababa (ADD) at 05:55 the following day. Operated by Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This service will not operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.From December 2, 2024, to January 31, 2025, Ethiopian Airlines will offer four weekly flights on this route, with the Manila-Hong Kong-Addis Ababa service not operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. For the rest of the winter season, the frequency will drop further to three weekly flights.
Ethiopian Airlines’ Overall Service to Hong Kong:
In addition to its Manila-bound service, Ethiopian Airlines will continue operating direct flights between Addis Ababa and Hong Kong throughout the winter period. This means Ethiopian Airlines will maintain a total of seven weekly flights to Hong Kong during December 2024 and January 2025, providing options for travelers flying to and from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). By maintaining daily service to Hong Kong, Ethiopian Airlines ensures a consistent connection between Africa and Asia during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Hong Kong remains a critical hub for Ethiopian Airlines, connecting passengers from Africa to other parts of Asia and beyond.
Adjustments Reflect Changing Demand in the Region:
Ethiopian Airlines’ decision to adjust its flight schedule reflects the dynamic nature of travel demand in the region during the winter months. The Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila route, connecting three major economic and cultural hubs, has been an essential service for business and leisure travelers alike. The reduction in flight frequency for the winter season may be a strategic response to fluctuations in passenger demand during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter. The period between early December and January typically experiences peak travel, particularly around the Christmas and New Year holidays, which explains why Ethiopian Airlines has maintained a four-weekly service during this time. However, as the season progresses and demand wanes, the airline will reduce the frequency to three flights per week.
Ethiopian Airlines’ Longstanding Presence in Asia:
Ethiopian Airlines has been steadily expanding its footprint in Asia for years, connecting Africa to key destinations such as Hong Kong, Manila, Beijing, Seoul, Bangkok, and Tokyo. The airline’s ability to offer efficient, long-haul connections has been instrumental in facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Africa and Asia. The use of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on this route underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to providing passengers with the best in onboard comfort and fuel-efficient technology. The 787 Dreamliner is equipped with features like larger windows, higher humidity levels, and advanced noise-reducing engines, making long-haul flights more comfortable for passengers.
Impact on Business and Tourism:
The Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila route plays a vital role in supporting business, tourism, and cultural exchanges between Africa and East Asia. The cities connected by this route are all significant in their respective regions:
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Addis Ababa
, the capital of Ethiopia, serves as a major aviation hub in Africa and a key player in the continent’s economic and diplomatic activities.*
Hong Kong
, as one of the world’s most important financial centers, acts as a gateway to Asia for African travelers and businesses.*
Manila
, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is a crucial hub for commerce, tourism, and cultural exchanges, attracting both business travelers and tourists.Ethiopian Airlines has been a key player in facilitating the growing connectivity between these regions. Despite the slight reductions in flight frequency, the airline continues to provide valuable service to passengers traveling between these dynamic cities.
Looking Ahead: Future Prospects for the Route:
Despite the changes in its winter schedule, Ethiopian Airlines remains a dominant force in the African and Asian aviation markets. As air travel continues to rebound from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethiopian Airlines is expected to evaluate and adjust its services to align with passenger demand. The Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila route will continue to play a vital role in the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen connectivity between Africa and Asia. For passengers traveling between Ethiopia, Hong Kong, and the Philippines, Ethiopian Airlines will remain a reliable option, offering high-quality service with its state-of-the-art fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. As the travel landscape evolves, passengers can expect Ethiopian Airlines to make adjustments that reflect both market demand and the airline’s commitment to providing efficient and comfortable travel experiences across its vast route network.
Ethiopian Airlines’ revised schedule for its Addis Ababa-Hong Kong-Manila service demonstrates its flexibility in adapting to changing market conditions while maintaining its strong presence in the Asian travel market. Passengers planning to travel on this route during the winter 2024/25 season should take note of the updated flight schedule and plan their journeys accordingly.
