Ethiopia’s national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines has announced the suspension of flights to and from Asmara, Eritrea.
In a statement on Monday, the airline said the suspension was effected September 3, (today).
The carrier attributed the decision to difficult operating conditions in Eritrea.
The airline said these difficult conditions are beyond their control.
“Ethiopian regrets to inform its valued customers travelling to/from Asmara that it has suspended its flights to Asmara effective September 3, 2024, due to very difficult operating conditions it has encountered in Eritrea that are beyond its control,” the statement reads.
Ethiopian Airlines said it would rebook all affected passengers on other airlines.
It said passengers who want refunds will get their ticket money in full.
“Ethiopian Airlines shall do all possible to rebook affected passengers on other airlines at no additional cost. Alternatively, passengers can receive full refund for their tickets.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, and appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time.”
The development comes a few weeks after Ethiopian Airlines announced that it had received a notice from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority suspending all its flights from September 30, 2024.
The airline said reasons for the suspension had not been given but it was seeking clarification on the same.
“Ethiopian Airlines has received a notice from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority through a letter dated 21 July 2024 indicating the suspension of all Ethiopian Airlines flights to Eritrea, effective September 30, 2024.
“he specific reasons for this suspension have not been disclosed to us,” the airline said.
The airline has been operating five weekly flights to Asmara.