Ethiopia seeks global aviation council seat as Africa’s sole candidate ahead of November vote – People Daily

Ethiopia is seeking a seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council as Africa’s sole candidate for an additional position, with the election scheduled for November 19–20, 2026, in Montréal, Canada.

In a statement posted on its official X account on Thursday, October 29, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the candidacy reflected the country’s longstanding contribution to international civil aviation and its commitment to advancing Africa’s interests in global aviation governance.

“Ethiopia is the sole candidate from Africa for membership in the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),” the ministry said.

The election will fill four additional positions created after an amendment to the Convention on International Civil Aviation took effect on June 12, 2026, expanding the Council from 36 to 40 member states. The extraordinary ICAO Assembly will bring together representatives of the organisation’s 193 member states to elect the additional members.

Ethiopia highlights aviation record

Ethiopia’s foreign ministry cited the country’s founding membership of ICAO and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), alongside its experience in aviation safety, security, technical training and capacity building.

The ministry also pointed to Ethiopian Airlines’ international network and the country’s aviation training, aircraft maintenance and cargo capabilities as part of its credentials.

“Strategically positioned to connect Africa with Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, Ethiopia continues to strengthen global connectivity through Ethiopian Airlines, extensive air services, and world-class aviation training, maintenance, and cargo capabilities,” the statement read.

Ethiopia has previously served on the ICAO Council, having been elected during the organisation’s 2022 Assembly.

What the Council seat means

The ICAO Council is the organisation’s governing body between Assembly sessions. It oversees implementation of Assembly decisions and considers matters affecting international civil aviation, including technical standards and recommended practices.

Ethiopia said it would use a Council seat to promote safer and more secure aviation, strengthen international cooperation and support ICAO’s “No Country Left Behind” initiative, which aims to help countries benefit from sustainable aviation development.

However, Ethiopia’s candidacy does not guarantee election. Member states will determine the outcome through the November vote, making diplomatic support and aviation credentials important elements of the campaign.