Ethiopian Airlines is making a bold statement in the e-commerce space, unveiled the airline’s innovative approach to the segment.
The airline will leverage its geographic advantage at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. With over 300 daily flights and a network spanning more than 130 destinations, the airline is positioned to connect key global markets efficiently.
“e-commerce logistics is not just about moving parcels; it’s about creating seamless connectivity between regions and building an infrastructure that supports growth, efficiency, and reliability,” Tewodros Ayalew, Manager of e-commerce Logistics Services at Ethiopian Airlines Group, began.
“Our ideal location and expanding network allow us to serve as a bridge for global e-commerce, enabling fast and reliable delivery to some of the world’s most underserved regions,” he emphasised.
Tailored services
At the heart of the airline’s offerings is ET-eCOM, a comprehensive airport-to-airport courier service. This solution guarantees dedicated cargo space, late acceptance of shipments, and priority handling, ensuring that time-sensitive packages reach their destinations without unnecessary delays.
“We understand that e-commerce thrives on speed and precision. ET-eCOM is our answer to the high-stakes demands of this sector,” Ayalew shared.
Complementing this service is ET-Courier, a flexible solution with options tailored to various customer needs. For traditional air cargo shipments, eCOM-Standard provides efficient export, import, and transit services, complete with workstation-level sortation for enhanced speed. Meanwhile, eCOM-Lite caters to consolidated shipments, offering de-consolidation, repacking, and labeling services at the airline’s Addis Ababa (ADD) hub.
For customers seeking a more integrated approach, eCOM-to-Door delivers end-to-end logistics solutions, including customs clearance and last-mile delivery in partnership with third-party logistics (3PL) providers.
One of Ethiopian Airlines’ standout innovations is its On-Demand Fulfilment service. This bulk storage solution, based at the ADD hub, facilitates pick, pack, and ship operations for clients. Goods are stored in advance, allowing for rapid response to shipping orders while minimizing costs.
“On-Demand Fulfilment is a game-changer for e-commerce businesses looking to scale in Africa and the Middle East. It combines efficiency with cost-effectiveness, giving businesses the edge they need in a competitive market,” Ayalew emphasised.
By integrating its tailored service offerings with robust infrastructure, Ethiopian Airlines continues to strengthen its position as a vital link in global e-commerce logistics. With innovations like ET-eCOM, ET-Courier, and On-Demand Fulfilment, the airline is not only addressing today’s logistical challenges but also setting the standard for the future of e-commerce logistics in Africa and beyond.
“e-commerce is all about flexibility and responsiveness,” Ayalew remarked. “Our services are designed to adapt to customer needs, whether it’s airport-to-airport or full end-to-end logistics.”
Advanced Infrastructure to Meet Growing Demand
The cornerstone of Ethiopian Airlines’ e-commerce capabilities is its dedicated logistics facility at Addis Ababa. Spanning 15,000 sq m, the facility includes automated sorting systems capable of handling over 1 million parcels daily.
“This facility is not just a logistics hub; it’s a gateway to global markets,” Ayalew stated. The infrastructure supports seamless cargo-to-mail conversions, advanced temperature-controlled storage for sensitive items, and expedited transit handling for perishable goods.
Ethiopian Airlines has integrated cutting-edge technology into its logistics operations, including the nGen DTD system by Cargo Flash. This platform enables seamless track-and-trace functionality, enhanced data visibility, and optimised risk assessment.
“Transparency and data are at the heart of modern logistics,” Ayalew said. “Our technology empowers customers with real-time insights, enabling them to track shipments and make informed decisions.”
Future vision
As the demand for cross-border e-commerce continues to surge, Ethiopian Airlines is committed to expanding its capabilities. Plans include further scaling its freighter fleet, enhancing automation at its facilities, and deepening its partnerships with logistics players globally.
“Our goal is to redefine e-commerce logistics for the African continent and beyond,” Ayalew concluded. “We’re not just meeting today’s needs; we’re building the foundation for the future of global trade.”
