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Ethiopian Group Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew (2nd left) with the APEX team led by Joe Leader
Africa’s largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has once again secured continental recognition after being named Best Airline in Africa 2026 at the prestigious APEX Passenger Choice Awards, underscoring its enduring reputation for service excellence and customer satisfaction.
The accolade, which is determined entirely by independently verified passenger feedback, reflects the strong confidence and loyalty the airline continues to command among travellers across its extensive global network.
Industry observers note that the award reinforces Ethiopian Airlines’ sustained commitment to delivering a seamless, comfortable, and dependable travel experience – from booking to arrival.
According to organisers, the APEX Passenger Choice Awards stand out for their transparency, relying on real customer experiences rather than jury decisions.
With over one million verified flight ratings collected via TripIt across more than 600 airlines worldwide, the awards are widely regarded as a credible benchmark of passenger satisfaction.
Ethiopian Airlines’ latest recognition is attributed to its consistent performance in key areas such as onboard comfort, service delivery, and operational reliability – factors that have become increasingly important as passenger expectations evolve in a competitive global aviation landscape.
Reacting to the development, the airline’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew, described the award as especially meaningful because it is driven by passengers themselves.
“Receiving this recognition from our passengers makes it truly special. It reflects the dedication and teamwork of our staff across the entire network. Being named Best Airline in Africa motivates us to keep raising our standards and delivering an experience our customers can trust and enjoy,” he said.
On his part, Joe Leader, Chief Executive Officer of APEX, emphasised the credibility of the award, noting that Ethiopian Airlines’ victory mirrors the authentic voice of travellers.
“Ethiopian Airlines earning the 2026 APEX Best Airline in Africa award reflects the voice of verified passengers at scale. APEX recognises airlines through one of the most transparent awards methodologies in the industry,” he stated.
Beyond the award, analysts say Ethiopian Airlines continues to assert its leadership in African aviation through sustained investments in modern aircraft, digital transformation, and service innovation.
The airline has steadily expanded its international footprint, positioning itself as a key connector between Africa and the rest of the world.
Looking ahead, the carrier has reiterated its focus on enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency, while maintaining a people-centred approach.
With a clear growth strategy and continued investment in technology and fleet modernisation, Ethiopian Airlines is poised to consolidate its status as a dominant force not only in Africa but also on the global aviation stage.
