Ethiopian Airlines adds new route to Mozambique

Ethiopian Airlines has launched a new flight route connecting its hub in Addis Ababa to Nacala, a city in northern Mozambique. This marks the airline's third destination in Mozambique, following Maputo and Beira. The new service operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with flights from Addis Ababa passing through Blantyre, Malawi, while return flights from Nacala are direct. The airline stated the route aims to facilitate business travel and visitor access to northern Mozambique.

Nacala's strategic importance for landlocked nations

Nacala, located in the Nampula province, serves as a maritime gateway for Malawi and Zambia, two landlocked countries. The city is part of a corridor that includes port, road, and rail infrastructure. In October 2023, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia signed a partnership to develop this corridor, according to the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Nacala's economic zone and infrastructure

The Nacala special economic zone, established in 2007, spans 1,539 km², including Nacala-a-Velha. The area is highlighted for opportunities in agro-industry and other sectors, with infrastructure such as the airport, N13 road, and railroad aimed at attracting businesses. Authorities aim to align this industrial base with the new air transport service.

Officials highlight route's development potential

Irina Ribeiro, permanent secretary of the Mozambican Ministry of Transport and Logistics, emphasized the service's role in the region's development and commercial integration into international markets. However, Ethiopian Airlines has not yet specified fares or traffic forecasts for the new route. Local stakeholders are expected to assess the service's accessibility and its use in professional travel.